Nude under a Pine Tree

Pablo Picasso

Created:
Movement:
21570
key Notes:
Cubist abstraction, Naturalistic setting
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Dimensions:
194 × 279.5 cm (76 3/8 × 110 1/8 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Nude under a Pine Tree" is a painting by Pablo Picasso, created in 1936. This work exemplifies Picasso's exploration of the human form and his innovative approach to composition and color. The painting features a reclining nude figure set against a backdrop of stylized natural elements, specifically a pine tree, which serves to juxtapose the organic form of the figure with the geometric shapes characteristic of Picasso's style during this period. The use of bold colors and dynamic lines reflects the influence of both Cubism and Surrealism, movements with which Picasso was closely associated. The work is significant within the context of Picasso's oeuvre as it demonstrates his continued evolution as an artist and his ability to merge abstraction with representational elements. "Nude under a Pine Tree" is part of the broader narrative of 20th-century art, highlighting themes of nature, the body, and the interplay between figure and environment. The painting is housed in a private collection and has been exhibited in various contexts, contributing to the ongoing discourse surrounding Picasso's impact on modern art.

Description of the work:

"Nude under a Pine Tree" by Pablo Picasso features a reclining female figure positioned in the foreground, characterized by simplified forms and bold, curvilinear lines. The figure's body is rendered in a palette of warm tones, including ochres and pinks, which contrast with the cooler greens and blues of the surrounding landscape. The pine tree, depicted with exaggerated, stylized branches, frames the composition and creates a sense of depth. The background is composed of abstracted shapes that suggest a natural environment, enhancing the organic quality of the scene. The overall composition exhibits a harmonious balance between the figure and the landscape, emphasizing the interplay of human form and nature. Picasso's distinctive brushwork contributes to the dynamic texture of the painting, while the use of light and shadow adds volume to the figure. The work exemplifies the artist's exploration of the human body within a natural context, reflecting his innovative approach to form and color.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Nude under a Pine Tree