Female Nude c. 1872

"Female Nude" is a graphite drawing created by American artist Walter Shirlaw (1838-1909) around 1872. This life study, executed in a meticulous and realistic style, showcases the artist's keen observation of the human form. Shirlaw's focus on anatomical detail and the subtle variations in tone are evident in the rendering of the figure's musculature and the soft contours of the body. The drawing's composition, featuring a standing nude figure against a plain background, reflects the academic tradition of figure drawing prevalent in the 19th century. This piece demonstrates Shirlaw's mastery of the medium and his ability to capture the essence of the human form with precision and grace.