Nu Couché 1866

"Nu Couché" (1866) by Gustave Courbet depicts a reclining nude woman in a naturalistic setting. This work, painted by the French Realist artist, captures the beauty of the female form in its natural state, a departure from idealized Classical representations. Courbet's focus on the ordinary and everyday, often depicted in a stark and unvarnished style, is evident in the realistic portrayal of the woman and her surroundings. While the artwork generated controversy for its subject matter and style, it remains a significant piece in Courbet's oeuvre, showcasing his commitment to portraying the world as he saw it.