"The exposure of the body through representations of the nude was one of the most controversial issues in Victorian art. In an era that witnessed a broader audience for art and the development of new reproductive technologies, the nude was implicated in a variety of debates concerning public health and morals, which meant it could not be comfortably contained within the confines of high culture.".

"This illustrated publication surveys the full range of Victorian representations of female and male figures. While concentrating on painting, sculpture and drawing, it also explores the depiction of the body in other media, including photography, popular illustration and film, exposing issues of morality, sexuality and desire that remain relevant today."--BOOK JACKET.