Liggend vrouwelijk naakt, op de rug gezien 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this drawing of a reclining nude, seen from the back, with graphite on paper. It’s all about the line here, right? Look how Israels uses it to define the curve of the body, how he suggests the weight and form with such economy. The pressure and speed with which it was drawn is evident. It’s like he’s feeling his way around the form. Check out the hand, how the fingers are slightly curled and tense. It’s a beautiful little passage, full of character. The soft hatching of the buttock gives a real sense of volume. The drawing feels so immediate, so present. You can imagine the artist quickly capturing the pose. This reminds me of a drawing by Degas. Both artists share a similar interest in capturing the fleeting moment, the everyday gesture. Art is always about seeing and showing something new. Even in the most traditional subject.