“Reproduction Drawing II (after the Leonardo Cartoon)” is a notable artwork by Jenny Saville, created between 2009 and 2010. It belongs to the Neo-Expressionism movement and falls within the genres of nude painting (nu) and sketch and study. The artwork exemplifies a modern take on traditional figure drawing, showcasing the artist’s interpretation of classical themes through a contemporary lens.
The artwork presents an intense, somewhat blurred and layered rendering of a nude female figure, holding what appears to be a child. The drawing technique employed by Saville results in a complex visual where multiple outlines and ghost-like forms overlap, creating a sense of movement and transformation. Shading and contours hint at the depth and mass of the bodies, offering a raw and unidealized portrayal of human form.
One may observe that the artist has emphasized certain anatomical features, such as the mother’s embracing arm and the fullness of her form, which are depicted with impressive weight and presence. The child, in contrast, appears delicate and serene within the robust hold of the mother. The overall composition and execution of the artwork suggest a deep exploration of the relationship between mother and child, expressed with visceral intensity and emotion.
The use of charcoal or a similar medium gives the artwork a smudgy, immediate quality, emphasizing the artist’s gestural approach to drawing. It’s a powerful example of how contemporary artists draw inspiration from the past, in this case from the work of Leonardo da Vinci, while exploring their subjects in a manner that breaks from traditional representation to provoke thought and engage viewers in a dialogue with history and the human condition.
