Artwork

Woman Leaning Forward

Woman Leaning Forward, by Paul Cézanne, graphite, 1890
Woman Leaning Forward, by Paul Cézanne, graphite, 1890

Woman Leaning Forward is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:center right in graphite: Antonio Franchi Avenue / du Maine 124; by later hand, lower right in graphite: XXI; by later hand, upper right in graphite: 39

About this work

Overview

Woman Leaning Forward is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by Paul Cézanne in 1890.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman's back and shoulders as she leans forward with her arms resting on her knees, capturing a simple, intimate pose.

Technique & Style

Executed in loose, quick lines with minimal shading, the drawing emphasizes basic forms and uses chiaroscuro to convey the subject's three-dimensionality.

Context

This work appears to be a study or practice piece, possibly preparatory for a larger composition, reflecting Cézanne's focus on capturing fundamental shapes and volumes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cézanne

Artist

Paul Cézanne

Paul Cézanne ( say-ZAN, UK also siz-AN, US also say-ZAHN; French: ; Occitan: Pau Cesana; 19 January 1839 – 22 October 1906) was a French Post-Impressionist painter whose work introduced new modes of representation,…

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 Woman Leaning Forward?

Woman Leaning Forward was painted by Paul Cézanne in 1890.

Where can I see Woman Leaning Forward?

Woman Leaning Forward is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Woman Leaning Forward?

Woman Leaning Forward is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Woman Leaning Forward?

Museum-quality prints of Woman Leaning Forward are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.