Artwork

Reclining Nude

Reclining Nude, by Amedeo Modigliani, oil, 1917
Reclining Nude, by Amedeo Modigliani, oil, 1917

Reclining Nude is an oil painting by Amedeo Modigliani. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Reclining Nude is a 1917 oil painting by Amedeo Modigliani, an Italian artist associated with the École de Paris. The work is part of the Museum of Modern Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a nude woman in a relaxed pose, with her head resting on her arm and legs slightly bent. The focus is on the figure's form, with an emphasis on the mons pubis. The serene expression and closed eyes convey a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.

Technique & Style

Modigliani's use of bold lines and simplified forms characterizes the work. The warm, earthy background complements the soft tones of the figure's skin, creating a sense of harmony. The artist's style is marked by elongated forms, a trait evident in his portraits and nudes.

History & Provenance

Modigliani moved to Paris in 1906, where he interacted with artists like Pablo Picasso and Constantin Brâncuși. Reclining Nude was created in 1917, during a period when the artist was producing notable works featuring nudes and portraits.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Amedeo Modigliani

Artist

Amedeo Modigliani

Amedeo Clemente Modigliani (US: ; Italian: ; 12 July 1884 – 24 January 1920) was an Italian painter and sculptor of the École de Paris who worked mainly in France.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.