“Reclining Nude”, created by artist Matthew Smith in 1922, is an evocative artwork categorized under the Fauvism art movement. It falls within the genre of nude painting (nu), revealing the innovative and expressive use of color typical of Fauvist aesthetics.
The artwork captures the essence of a reclining nude figure, depicted in a series of vibrant and contrasting hues that are characteristic of Fauvism’s bold color palette. The figure’s body is rendered in abstracted forms with dominant green and yellow tones, accented by reds, emphasizing the emotive potential of color. The loose brushwork and non-naturalistic usage of color reflect an emphasis on the emotional impact rather than realistic representation, embodying the radical artistic exploration of the early 20th century. The background blends seamlessly with the figure, creating an integrated composition that invites the viewer to explore the visceral and spontaneous nature of the painting.