“Nude Fixing Her Hair,” an artwork by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, was created in 1885. The medium of the piece is oil on canvas, and it exemplifies the Impressionist movement. This nude painting (nu) belongs to the genre that focuses on the human figure in a state of undress. It is housed at the Clark Art Institute located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, United States.
The artwork is a tender and intimate portrayal of a female subject engrossed in the act of arranging her hair. The figure is depicted from behind, in slight profile, which allows the viewer to observe the subtle play of light across her skin and the intricate details of her hair. The subject’s pose is relaxed and natural, conveying a sense of serenity and private moment. She is seated against a blurred backdrop that suggests a pastoral landscape, rendered in soft, dappled brushstrokes typical of the Impressionist style. The use of color is rich yet delicate, emphasizing the warmth of the flesh against the cool blues and greens of the setting. Renoir’s craftsmanship in capturing the human form with both accuracy and emotion is evident in this sensitively composed piece.
