Cheri is a French erotic magazine that was published from 1956 to 1982. It featured photography of nude women, often posing suggestively. It gained popularity among readers due to its sensual visuals and provocative content. Over time, it has been included in several museum collections as a cultural and historical artifact. This paper will explore why Cheri was included in these collections and what makes it unique compared to other pulp magazines. In this context, we will discuss how the inclusion of Cheri in art collections influences its value as an item for study and preservation.
In general, pulp magazines are publications that are printed on cheap paper and contain low-quality writing. They were often designed to appeal to a mass audience. However, some pulp magazines have become collectibles because of their rarity or historical significance. For example, Weird Tales and Astounding Science Fiction are now considered valuable items. While they may be seen as "lowbrow" literature, they were important to genre development. Similarly, Cheri is now recognized as an important part of art history despite being primarily known for its erotica.
The most notable collection of Cheri issues is at the Museum of Eroticism in Paris. The museum features more than 30,0000 pieces, including books, films, paintings, photographs, and sculptures. Its mission is to promote understanding of human sexuality through education and exhibits. Cheri is one of many magazines in the collection, but its place within it elevates its status beyond pulp media. Other well-known magazines, such as Playboy and Penthouse, are also displayed in the museum. These magazines share similarities with Cheri, but each has distinctive elements that make them stand out.
One reason Cheri stands out from other pulp magazines is its focus on photography. Unlike typical illustrations found in other periodicals, Cheri's images were carefully composed and professionally shot. This allowed them to convey mood and emotion, making them more visually appealing than text alone. Additionally, the magazine featured a wide range of models, including celebrities like Brigitte Bardot and Simone Signoret. Their presence made the photos seem more legitimate than those found in other erotic publications.
Another factor contributing to Cheri's inclusion in collections is its historical significance. During its run, France was undergoing major political and cultural changes. The magazine reflected these shifts by featuring stories about sex and relationships. For example, some issues included articles on feminism or same-sex love. While these topics were controversial at the time, they are now seen as important parts of history. As such, collectors recognize Cheri as an artifact of this era.
Finally, Cheri's unique design makes it stand apart from other pulp magazines. It had high production values, using glossy paper and vibrant colors. The cover artwork was often abstract or surrealist, making each issue a visual treat. Overall, Cheri's appearance resembled art books rather than mass-produced literature. Its inclusion in museum collections highlights this distinction.
In conclusion, Cheri is noteworthy because of its artistic value, historical context, and cultural impact. Museums and private collectors have acquired many issues for their historical and artistic value, recognizing the magazine as an important cultural artifact. Its place in collections elevates its status beyond pulp media. These factors make Cheri a valuable item for study and preservation.