Liggende naakte vrouw 1898

George Hendrik Breitner sketched this ‘Lying Nude Woman’ with pencil on paper. The reclining nude, a symbol of sensuality and vulnerability, has a long lineage in art. Consider the classical depictions of Venus, goddesses of love and beauty, often shown in repose. This pose is echoed through the centuries, from Renaissance paintings to the works of artists like Titian and Manet. The tradition continues here. Note the curve of the woman's body, the soft lines suggesting relaxation, and perhaps even an invitation. The act of reclining, deeply ingrained in our collective memory, often signifies leisure, introspection, and a surrender to the moment. The pose has evolved, but its capacity to engage viewers emotionally remains potent. The cyclical return and transformation of these motifs underscore the enduring human fascination with beauty, intimacy, and the power of the body.