“Standing Figure” is a work of art by Alphonse Mucha, dating from circa 1900. This artwork, which belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement, is rendered in charcoal and pastel on paper. The dimensions of the artwork are 62.5 x 47 cm. It is categorized as a sketch and study, and it is currently housed at the Mucha Museum in Prague, Czech Republic.
The artwork presents the elegant form of a standing figure, a hallmark of Mucha’s style that often celebrates femininity with a sense of grace and natural beauty. This figure is surrounded by what appears to be swirling motifs of circular forms that may suggest floral or ethereal elements, common motifs in Mucha’s compositions. These forms complement the central figure, who has her arms outstretched in a welcoming or presenting gesture. The delicate use of pastel may be noted in the subtle hints of color that embellish the otherwise monochromatic work, highlighting the figure and adding depth to the ethereal surroundings. The sense of movement and the organic lines are representative of the Art Nouveau style, which sought to break away from the rigid forms of academic art and embraced flowing, natural forms.
