“Nude under a Fir,” created by Swedish artist Anders Zorn in 1892, is a significant work belonging to the Impressionism movement. This oil on canvas artwork, measuring 78 by 100 centimeters, stands as a remarkable example of the nude painting (nu) genre. It presents a naked figure amidst an outdoor natural setting, notably under a fir tree, showcasing Zorn’s mastery in expressing complex light and shadow play. The piece is currently housed in a private collection.
In the artwork, the nude female figure stands gracefully enshrouded by foliage, suggesting an intimate interaction with nature. The play of light reflecting off her skin contrasts with the dark shadows of the surrounding woodland, exhibiting Zorn’s adept handling of natural light and his keen observation of the human form. The earthy palette and dynamic brushwork highlight the vitality of the natural landscape and the subject, encapsulating the essence of the Impressionist approach to capturing fleeting moments.