Artwork
Nude Study, Woman Lying on a Pillow
Nude Study, Woman Lying on a Pillow is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1924 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
The lines are loose and quick, focusing on shapes and curves rather than details.
This sketch shows a woman lying on her side on a pillow. Her body is relaxed, one arm bent under her head, the other stretched out. The lines are loose and quick, focusing on shapes and curves rather than details.
The artist didn’t fill in much shading, so the drawing feels light and sketchy. The focus is on the body’s movement and form.
Want to see more work like this? Check out George Bellows (American, 1882–1925).
Overview
George Bellows’ 1924 print *Nude Study, Woman Lying on a Pillow* presents a solitary figure reclining on a cushion. The composition captures a moment of quiet repose, with the model’s torso turned sideways, one arm supporting her head and the other extended outward. The work is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection.
Subject & Meaning
The image focuses on the unadorned human form, emphasizing the natural curvature of the body rather than idealized beauty. By portraying the figure in a relaxed pose, Bellows invites contemplation of everyday physicality and the quiet intimacy of a private moment.
Technique & Style
Executed with loose, rapid lines, the print relies on gestural strokes to suggest shape and movement. Minimal shading leaves the surface light and sketch‑like, highlighting the contours of the figure while avoiding detailed surface texture, a hallmark of Bellows’ observational approach.
History & Provenance
Created in the final year of Bellows’ life, the work reflects his shift from the bustling streets of New York to more personal subjects. It entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition in the mid‑20th century, where it remains on display.
Context
While Bellows is best known for his vigorous depictions of urban life, this print demonstrates his versatility within the realist tradition. It aligns with his broader interest in direct observation, applying the same immediacy used in city scenes to a private, domestic setting.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Wesley Bellows (August 12 or August 19, 1882 – January 8, 1925) was an American realist painter, known for his bold depictions of urban life in New York City.
