The artwork titled “The Bathers” by Maurice Prendergast, created circa 1912-1915, is a watercolor on paper with dimensions of 27.94 x 38.1 cm. This piece belongs to the Naïve Art movement, also known as Primitivism, and is categorized within the genre of nude painting. It currently resides in a private collection.
The artwork illustrates a group of bathers in an outdoor setting, rendered in a vibrant and fluid style characteristic of the Naïve Art movement. The figures are situated within a landscape featuring lush greenery and a body of water, depicted using bold, loose brushstrokes and vivid colors. The simplicity and stylization of the forms emphasize the spontaneity and charm inherent in Prendergast’s technique. The overall composition and use of color create a lively and harmonious scene that captures the essence of leisurely outdoor activity.
