“Reclining Red Nude I,” created by artist Matthew Smith in 1924, is a notable piece within the genres of Fauvism and Expressionism. This nude painting, often referred to in French as “nu,” reflects the distinct characteristics of its associated art movements.
The artwork portrays a reclining nude figure rendered in vibrant hues and bold brushstrokes, characteristic of Fauvism’s vivid color palette and Expressionism’s emotive intensity. The piece captures the subject in a relaxed, leisurely pose, conveyed through a rich interplay of red, orange, and yellow tones against a contrasting background of dark greens and blues. The energetic application of paint and the dynamic composition evoke a sense of movement and emotional depth, embodying the expressive qualities admired in Smith’s oeuvre.