The artwork titled “L’Ecorche” was created by Vincent van Gogh in 1887, during his time in Paris, France. Executed using pencil and ink on paper, this piece is part of the Post-Impressionism movement and falls under the genre of sketch and study.
The artwork depicts a meticulously detailed anatomical study of a man’s back, showcasing the muscles and structure in a stripped-down, almost academic manner. The use of pencil and ink enhances the precision of the lines, highlighting Van Gogh’s keen observation and understanding of human anatomy. The figure’s stance is one of both tension and relaxation, with a notable attention to the texture and dimensionality of the musculature. The absence of background detail directs all focus to the anatomical form, emphasizing the educational aspect of the sketch.