Reclining Female Nude is an evocative graphite drawing created by Amedeo Modigliani in 1914. Executed entirely in pencil, this work demonstrates the artist's refined draftsmanship and his preoccupation with the female figure, a subject that defines his mature period. Though an Italian artist, Modigliani spent most of his active career in Paris, where he synthesized the classical tradition with burgeoning modernist styles, notably the geometric angularity influenced by African sculpture.
The composition centers on the delicate contours of the reclining subject, defined by Modigliani’s signature elegant elongation. The simplicity of the graphite medium allows for a clear study of the artist’s line work, emphasizing the graceful curve of the body and the subject’s often stylized, mask-like features. This drawing predates Modigliani’s most famous series of painted nudes, serving as a crucial example of the preparatory studies he undertook to refine his distinctive visual language—a language rooted in the linear clarity derived from his Italian artistic heritage.
As a significant example of Modigliani's graphic output from this crucial pre-war period, this drawing provides essential insight into the foundation of his painting style. Classification as a drawing ensures that high-quality prints and reproductions are widely utilized in educational contexts, with many reproductions eventually entering the public domain, thus extending the reach of the artist’s work. This piece is currently held in the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.