Seated Female Nude Looking Forward
1908
Medium
graphite on folded paper
Dimensions
Overall (folded sh): 31.2 x 20 cm (12 5/16 x 7 7/8 in.) overall (unfolded): 31.2 x 40 cm (12 5/16 x 15 3/4 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Mrs. John W. Simpson
Accession Number
1942.5.39
Art Historical Context
In 1908, near the end of his illustrious career, Auguste Rodin created *Seated Female Nude Looking Forward*, a poignant graphite drawing on folded paper now housed in the National Gallery of Art. This intimate study captures a model in a relaxed, contemplative pose, her direct gaze engaging the viewer with quiet intensity. Measuring 31.2 x 20 cm when folded (expanding to 31.2 x 40 cm unfolded), the paper's portability reflects Rodin's habit of sketching live models in his studio, folding sheets for convenience during rapid sessions. Rodin, a pioneer of modern sculpture celebrated for works li...
About the Artist
Auguste Rodin · 1840–1917
François Auguste René Rodin (1840-1917) stands as the founder of modern sculpture, transforming the art form from academic tradition into expressive modernism. Born into a working-class Parisian family, Rodin faced early rejection, failing three times to gain admission to the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts. This setback forced him to work as a craftsman for nearly two decades, though his 1875 tr...