Artwork
Etude de femme nue, les bras abaissés (Study of a Nude Woman, with Lowered Arms)
Etude de femme nue, les bras abaissés (Study of a Nude Woman, with Lowered Arms) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Jean-Louis Forain. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Etude de femme nue, les bras abaissés is a transfer lithograph on laid Arches paper created by Jean-Louis Forain around 1900. The work depicts a nude woman in a relaxed, seated pose with lowered arms.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a nude woman with legs crossed and arms at her sides, conveys quiet contemplation. Subtle shading and the play of light and shadow emphasize her form, inviting the viewer to focus on her introspective state.
Technique & Style
Forain employed soft, gentle lines and nuanced shading in this lithograph, characteristic of his Impressionist approach. The use of light and shadow adds warmth and intimacy, typical of the movement's emphasis on capturing everyday moments and natural light effects.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1900, this work reflects Forain's proficiency across various mediums, including lithography. Despite his contemporary success, Forain's recognition has waned compared to some Impressionist peers.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Louis Forain (French pronunciation: ; 23 October 1852 – 11 July 1931) was a French Impressionist painter and printmaker, working in media including oils, watercolour, pastel, etching and lithograph.
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Two Nude Figure Studies
Seated Nude
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Stående kvindelig model
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Nude Woman Seated on a Bed
Femme nue, assise sur son lit, de face (Nude Woman, Seated on Her Bed, Front View)
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Etude de femme nue, les mains croisées au-dessous de la tête (Study of a Nude Woman, Her Hands Crossed behind Her Head)