Study of a Reclining Nude

François Boucher

1732–1735

Red and white chalk, on oatmeal paper, strips of paper added at top and bottom edges, Paper

J. Paul Getty Museum

A red chalk drawing depicts a reclining nude figure with their head tilted back and looking upwards. The figure is positioned on a surface with draped fabric. A red chalk drawing depicts a reclining nude figure with their head tilted back and looking upwards. The figure is positioned on a surface with draped fabric. As a young woman twists to look backward over her shoulder, she displays the voluptuous curves of her nude body. With her left arm hidden behind her torso, her right arm balances on the bolster pillow that supports her breast. In this simple sketch, François Boucher filled the model's body with a sense of motion and vitality even in repose, showing his mastery of line. From her twisting toes, bent forward to support her weight, to her tilted head and the muscular arms that pro