“Study for a Nude with Figure in a Mirror,” created by Francis Bacon in 1969, is an evocative expressionist oil painting on canvas, measuring 198 x 147 cm. This artwork belongs to the genre of nude painting (nu) and is currently held in a private collection. Bacon’s work is notable for its visceral and often distorted portrayal of the human form, a hallmark of his expressionist approach.
The artwork depicts a nude figure seated on a platform with crossed legs and an abstract, contorted form suggestive of both human vulnerability and existential anguish. The figure’s face is obscured, contributing to the piece’s enigmatic and haunting quality. To the right, a mirror reflects another figure, partially visible with discernible yet abstract elements, adding a layer of complexity and introspection to the composition. The background features a bold, pink hue that contrasts starkly with the darker tones of the figures and the platform. The interplay of colors and forms in Bacon’s composition evokes a sense of tension and unease, embodying the artist’s exploration of the human condition through expressionist lenses.