Artwork

Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso)

Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso), by Gioacchino Banfi, graphite, 1878
Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso), by Gioacchino Banfi, graphite, 1878

Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso) is a graphite print by the Impressionist artist Gioacchino Banfi. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:recto: in image, at lower left, in black ink: G. Banfi

About this work

Overview

This double-sided work on paper by Gioacchino Banfi comprises an etching of a reclining nude woman on one side and a pen-and-ink architectural drawing on the other, created around 1878.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a relaxed female figure lying on a surface, while the verso features a rough architectural sketch with a building, window, and possible scaffolding or framing elements.

Technique & Style

Banfi employed loose, expressive strokes to convey light and shadow, resulting in a sketchy, unfinished appearance characteristic of a study rather than a polished work. The etching technique allowed for the creation of varied textures and tonal effects.

History & Provenance

The work is held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso)?

Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso) was painted by Gioacchino Banfi in 1878.

Where can I see Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso)?

Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso)?

Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso) is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso)?

Museum-quality prints of Reclining Female Nude (recto); Architectural Design (verso) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.