The artwork titled “Reclining Boy Leaning on His Elbow” is a creation of Egon Schiele, dating back to 1917 when it was conceived in Vienna, Austria. This piece is executed in watercolor on paper, embodying the Expressionist movement, a genre that Schiele played a significant role in shaping. Specifically, this piece is a portrait and, as of the last known records, resides within a private collection.
The artwork depicts a young male figure, portrayed in a reclined position, propped on his left elbow. Schiele’s distinctive style is evident in the exaggerated lines and expressive contours that define the boy’s form. The color palette is somewhat muted, primarily composed of earthy tones that lend a sense of warmth to the subject’s flesh, while touches of blue around the figure’s collarbone and facial features add contrast and depth.
Schiele’s handling of the medium showcases his exceptional skill in watercolor, with a range of shades and brushstrokes that bring texture and vibrancy to the composition. The boy’s gaze appears introspective, directed away from the viewer, suggesting a moment of quietude or contemplation. The artwork captures the characteristic intensity and emotional resonance typical of Schiele’s portraiture, an intimate window into both the subject’s psyche and the artist’s perception.
