The artwork titled “Study for the painting ‘Nude Resting'” was created by the artist Balthus in 1972. This piece, made with pencil on paper, belongs to the Expressionism movement and serves as a sketch and study genre. The dimensions of the artwork are 101.6 by 71.1 centimeters.
The artwork depicts a reclining nude figure, captured in a manner that emphasizes form and contour. Executed with a precise yet fluid hand, the sketch showcases the artist’s ability to render the human body in a relaxed pose with a nuanced expression of line and shadow. The portrayal lacks sharp detailing, particularly in the facial region, allowing the viewer to focus more on the gesture and depth of the form rather than individual features. This technique reflects the Expressionist tendency to prioritize emotional resonance over realistic representation. The pencil strokes vary in pressure, creating different shades that contribute to the volume and three-dimensionality of the figure. The background remains nearly blank, keeping the attention centered on the subject’s form and pose.
