The artwork titled “Nude at Rest” was created by the artist Balthus in 1977. Using the medium of oil on canvas, this piece embodies the characteristics of the Expressionist movement. The painting, which measures 150 x 200 cm, is part of the genre of nude paintings, specifically categorized under the term “nu.” Currently, this artwork is held in a private collection.
The artwork features a young woman posed languidly in a seated position, with her body leaning slightly to one side and her eyes closed, suggesting a state of repose or introspection. Her posture is relaxed, with one arm resting on the arm of the chair and the other hand relaxed at her side, while one leg is casually propped on the chair, creating a dynamic yet serene composition. The background is rendered in muted tones, allowing the viewer’s focus to remain on the subject. Subtle variations of color and light accentuate the figure’s form, emphasizing the smooth textures of the skin and the fabric of the chair. The overall ambiance of the painting is one of quiet contemplation and introspective calm, characteristic of Balthus’s unique approach to human form and emotion.