Two Studies of a Seated Nude with Long Hair

Gustav Klimt

about 1901–1902

Black chalk and red pencil, Chalk, Pencil

J. Paul Getty Museum

Two studies of nude figures, seen from behind, are sketched on a tan paper. The figures have long, flowing hair and are in seated or crouching positions. Two studies of nude figures, seen from behind, are sketched on a tan paper. The figures have long, flowing hair and are in seated or crouching positions. Gustav Klimt's favored working practice was somewhat unorthodox: he employed a number of nude models who lounged around his studio striking spontaneous poses, which he captured with a few exquisitely economical strokes of chalk or pencil. Many such life studies remained independent works of art, but others inspired paintings. These sketches of a kneeling woman, her generous buttocks thrust toward the viewer and her luxuriant hair cascading around her head as if caught by a current