The artwork entitled “Naked Woman on a Sofa,” created by Lucian Freud from 1984 to 1985, is an evocative example of Expressionist art. Executed in oil on canvas, the painting measures 60.5 by 51 cm and falls within the genre of nude painting (nu). Currently held in a private collection, this piece is a testament to Freud’s ability to capture the raw and unembellished human form.
The artwork depicts a nude woman reclining on a sofa, portrayed with a striking realism that conveys the intensity of the human condition. The subject’s form is rendered with thick, textured brushstrokes, enhancing the contours and imperfections of her body, while the muted palette emphasizes the somber and introspective mood. The woman’s pose—lying on her side with arms folded beneath her head—suggests a state of vulnerability and introspection. Freud’s meticulous attention to detail in the rendering of the skin tones and the play of light and shadow further contributes to the palpable sense of physical presence. Overall, the artwork is quintessential of Freud’s approach to capturing the unvarnished reality of his subjects.
