The artwork “Seated Nude (A l’Est)” was painted by Pierre-Auguste Renoir in 1885. This oil on canvas is a work of the Impressionism movement, specifically belonging to the nude painting (nu) genre. Currently, the artwork is held in a private collection.
The artwork showcases a female figure seated in a relaxed pose, her body partially turned towards the viewer. The figure is portrayed with soft, rounded forms that embody the sensuality and tactile quality typical of Renoir’s nudes. She is seated on a plush, red velvet chair that contrasts with her pale skin, adding to the warmth of the composition.
Renoir’s Impressionist technique is evident in the loose and fluid brushstrokes that capture the play of light and shadow on the subject’s skin and surroundings. The background is composed of blocks of warm and cool colors, which suggest a domestic interior without much detail, allowing the viewer’s focus to remain on the figure. The woman’s expression is pensive, evoking a sense of intimacy and quiet contemplation.
Overall, the subtleties of tone and texture in this painting illuminate the artist’s fascination with the human form and his ability to convey character and atmosphere through his masterful use of color and light.
