Seated Nude c. 20th century

Editor: This is Joseph Arthur Coletti's sculpture, "Seated Nude," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The sculpture's form is quite captivating. What strikes you most about its composition? Curator: The sculpture presents an intriguing study in form and balance. Consider the arrangement of limbs: the raised arms counter the grounded legs, creating a dynamic tension. How does the sculptor's use of line direct your gaze? Editor: I notice the gaze moves upward with the right leg to the head and then is brought down via the positioning of the arms. Curator: Precisely. The interplay of convex and concave surfaces, combined with the subtle gradations of light and shadow across the textured surface, enlivens the sculpture. The artist uses these contrasts to reveal the underlying structure of the human form. What do you make of the base? Editor: I see that the base is very geometric. Almost like a book. I learned more about how the sculpture works through its shapes and form. Thanks!