The “Female Nude” is an artwork by Albrecht Dürer, dating back to 1506 during the Northern Renaissance period. It is categorized as a sketch and study, showcasing the artist’s skill in portraying the human form. Currently, this piece is part of the collection at the British Museum in London, UK.
In the artwork, a woman is presented from the back in a standing pose. The figure is nude, capturing the natural curves and muscle definition of the female body with high attention to detail. The woman’s hair is styled in an updo, revealing the nape of her neck and adding to the realistic portrayal of the human figure. Dürer’s mastery of line work comes through with delicate shading and fine lines, giving a sense of depth to the drawing. The study may have served as an insight into the artist’s process, focusing on anatomy and form, which is a hallmark of the Renaissance period’s pursuit of realistic depiction of the human body.