Masochism Collection

Mexican Indian religious service of penitence, from Americae, 1602, written
BAL111694 Mexican Indian religious service of penitence, from Americae, 1602, written and engraved by Theodor de Bry (1528-98) (engraving) by Le Moyne

Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (1836-95) (engraving) (b / w photo)
CHT213279 Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (1836-95) (engraving) (b/w photo) by French School, (19th century); Musee de la Ville de Paris, Musee Carnavalet, Paris, France; (add.info.: born in Galacia)

Saint Mary Magdalene in Penitence, 1590-1607. Creator: Circle of Giuseppe Scolari
Saint Mary Magdalene in Penitence, 1590-1607

The Blessed Henry Suso Kneeling before Eternal Wisdom, before 1650

CHINESE BEGGARS / MASOCHIS
Strolling Beggars in China placing burning coals on their heads and using other austerities Date: 1752

The Penitent Magdalen, ca. 1750. Creator: Corrado Giaquinto
The Penitent Magdalen, ca. 1750

Handcuffs

Leopold V. Sacher-Masoch
LEOPOLD VON SACHER-MASOCH German novelist; the term masochism was derived from his name due to the content of his novels Date: 1836 - 1895

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"Exploring the Depths of Masochism: A Journey through History and Art" Masochism, a concept deeply rooted in human nature, has been observed and documented throughout history. From ancient religious practices to artistic representations, this captivating phenomenon continues to intrigue and challenge our understanding of pleasure and pain. In the depths of time, we find ourselves drawn to Mexican Indian religious services of penitence. These rituals, depicted in the 1602 manuscript "Americae, " offer glimpses into a world where self-inflicted suffering was seen as a path towards spiritual enlightenment. Fast forward to the late 19th century when "The Pearl - A Monthly Journal of Facetiae and Voluptuous Reading" captivated readers with its hand-colored wood engravings. Among them, an image from July 1879-December 1880 edition stands out—a visual representation that hints at the intertwining relationship between pain and pleasure. "The Veiled Venus, " created in bronze by an unknown artist in 1900, further explores this complex theme. This sculpture's delicate beauty is veiled by an air of mystery—an embodiment of masochistic desires hidden beneath layers of societal norms. Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (1836-95), known for his exploration of erotic power dynamics, adds another layer to our understanding. Through his writings captured in an engraving or black-and-white photograph, he delves deep into the psyche behind masochistic tendencies—shedding light on both its allure and psychological complexities. Artists have long sought inspiration from tales like "Aristotle and Phyllis. " This centuries-old story depicts a powerful woman exerting dominance over Aristotle himself—a testament to how even great minds can succumb to their own desires for submission. Religious iconography also plays a role in unraveling masochism's intricacies.