The artwork entitled “Standing Male Nude, Back View” was created by Egon Schiele in 1910, during a time when he was residing in Czech Republic. Executed in watercolor on paper, this piece measures 45 x 31.5 cm and is currently housed within a Private Collection. It belongs to the Expressionism movement and falls under the genre of nude painting (nu). The piece is emblematic of Schiele’s interest in the human form and his unique approach to expression and anatomy.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with the back view of a male figure. The figure stands upright with a slight tilt in posture, which imparts a sense of movement or tension within the body. The use of watercolor allows for both transparency and intensity, highlighting the contours and musculature of the back with a keen attention to anatomical detail. The color palette seems somewhat restricted, focusing on earthy tones that emphasize the organic nature of the human body.
Schiele’s distinctive style is evident in the exaggerated lines and the somewhat emaciated appearance of the figure’s physique, aspects that are often associated with the Expressionist movement. There is a raw and unadulterated representation of the body, free from idealization and yet powerfully expressive. The figure’s head is bent forward, hiding the face from view and adding a sense of introspection or anonymity to the subject.
Overall, the painting evokes an emotional response, as Schiele’s work often does, by portraying the human body in a way that is deeply resonant and reveals a profound psychological depth. The intricate detailing and potent use of line in “Standing Male Nude, Back View” exemplify Schiele’s mastery and his enduring contribution to the Expressionist movement.
