Artwork
Woman in Bath, Holding a Glass of Wine
Woman in Bath, Holding a Glass of Wine is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Karel Vitezslav Masek. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1898 by Czech artist Karel Vítěslav Mašek, this graphite drawing depicts a nude woman seated in a bathtub while holding a glass of wine. Rendered on brown paper that has been mounted to green construction paper, the work measures modestly and presents a quiet, domestic moment captured in monochrome.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a solitary female figure immersed in water, her posture relaxed and her gaze calm. The inclusion of a wine glass introduces a subtle suggestion of leisure and indulgence, while the sparse surroundings keep attention on the woman's tranquil demeanor, inviting contemplation of private repose.
Technique & Style
Mašek employed graphite to achieve a range of tonal values on the brown substrate, creating a muted chiaroscuro effect that models form through light and shadow. The choice of brown paper as a ground adds warmth to the drawing, and the mounting on green construction paper provides a contrasting border that frames the scene without detracting from its simplicity.
History & Provenance
The drawing was executed toward the end of the 19th century, a period when Mašek explored intimate genre subjects alongside his more formal works. Its provenance prior to museum acquisition remains undocumented in public records, and no exhibition history is currently noted, reflecting its status as a relatively obscure piece within the artist’s oeuvre.
Artist & collection
