Description
Edgar Degas’s Standing Nude Youth, with Right Arm Raised examines a pose through the changing relationships of torso, limbs and head. The youth stands with his legs apart, one arm lifted and the other extended away from his body. More lightly indicated passages leave the head and torso open to the surrounding paper. The pose becomes the principal subject, drawing attention to balance rather than to an elaborate narrative.
Made in 1859–60, the study uses graphite on paper, with some passages rubbed to soften their effect. This combination allows line and tone to work together without giving every part the same degree of emphasis. The drawing remains an investigation rather than a narrative. Degas looks for a convincing structure within the pose, making the body’s interconnected forms and the concentration required to describe them the heart of the work.
Read our guide to giclée prints or browse the Edgar Degas collection.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.