Naakte vrouwenfiguur staande voor enkele waterplanten c. 1828 - 1905

Eugène Lacomblé created this clay sculpture, “Naakte vrouwenfiguur staande voor enkele waterplanten”, which translates to “Naked female figure standing in front of some aquatic plants”, in the 19th century. Lacomblé who was born in Belgium, trained at the Academies of Fine Arts in Brussels and Antwerp, became a professor and director at the Academy of Fine Arts in Mechelen. During this period, the artistic representation of the female nude became a common subject. The female body was often used to symbolize purity and innocence. However, the depiction of women in art was also deeply influenced by societal norms and gender roles. The male gaze often dictated how women were portrayed. Standing at a height of 27 cm, this sculpture invites us to consider the interplay between naturalism and the idealized form. She seems to almost emerge from the waterplants. The sculpture presents the female nude in a classical form. Lacomblé skillfully captures a sense of vulnerability and strength. The female figure, though nude, exudes a sense of self-possession.