Mannelijk naakt 1825

Johannes de Mare created this nude male drawing in the Netherlands, during the 19th century. Images such as this one are part of a long tradition associated with the art academy. In this case, it would most likely be used as a study aid for the student. De Mare taught drawing himself. The image also participates in a public discourse around ideal masculinity that had its roots in ancient Greece and was revived during the Renaissance. You'll notice how the figure is idealized, with a clear attention to musculature. This drawing would likely have been exhibited at the academy in the Netherlands to show off artistic prowess to the public. It would be interesting to look at the exhibition records from the time, and the minutes of faculty meetings, to see how the role of the nude was discussed at the time. It might also be helpful to read contemporary critical reactions to better understand the place of this image in its original context.