The artwork “Cuckoo,” created by Gerda Wegener around 1920, is rendered within the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement. Classified within the genre of nude painting (nu), this piece exemplifies the stylistic elegance and decorative elements characteristic of the era.
In the artwork, Wegener employs a vibrant palette and delicate lines to portray a scene of opulent intimacy. The composition is set against a backdrop of three ornate chairs, where the central figures are noticeably engaged in a dynamic and sensuous interaction. The dominant green fabric draped over the scene creates a sense of movement, partially revealing one figure in a suggestive, reclining pose. The carefully articulated postures and luxurious surroundings epitomize the aesthetic sophistication of Art Nouveau, highlighting the human form’s natural beauty and fluidity.