Artwork
Ghiocelul
Ghiocelul is a drawing by Cornel Medrea. It dates from 1949 and is held in the collection of the Bucharest Municipality Museum.
About this work
Overview
Ghiocelul, executed around 1949 by Romanian sculptor and painter Cornel Medrea, is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The work presents a modestly sized image that concentrates on two nude female figures arranged in an intimate, quiet tableau.
Subject & Meaning
The composition shows a woman kneeling on the left and another seated with crossed legs on the right, their bodies close enough to suggest a private, contemplative interaction. The subdued expressions and relaxed postures convey a sense of calm intimacy without narrative detail, inviting viewers to consider the relational dynamics between the figures.
Technique & Style
Medrea employs a realistic approach, rendering the flesh with careful attention to anatomical detail and subtle facial cues. Line work and shading create volume and texture, while the limited background eliminates distraction, focusing attention on the figures. The handling of line also imparts a gentle sense of movement within the stillness of the scene.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1949, Ghiocelul entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings, where it remains on display. The work reflects Medrea’s mid‑century practice, aligning with his broader output that often combined figurative realism with a restrained compositional setting.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornel Medrea made expressive drawings and sculptures rooted in early 20th-century Romanian art.
