Who painted Standing Nude Binding Her Hair?

Standing Nude Binding Her Hair was painted by John Dawson Watson in 1879.

Where can I see Standing Nude Binding Her Hair?

Standing Nude Binding Her Hair is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Standing Nude Binding Her Hair?

Standing Nude Binding Her Hair is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Standing Nude Binding Her Hair

John Dawson Watson , 1879

Standing Nude Binding Her Hair is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist John Dawson Watson. It dates from 1879 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in pen and brown ink: JD.W. / 1879; across top verso in black ink: Campbell Smith Campbell / 85 Southhampton Row / WC; upper right verso in graphite: nude fig. / pencil drawing; lLv//in graphite: K5489; lCv//in graphite: EFK; lCv//in black ink: John Dawson Watson, 18321892; lRv//in graphite: 21

About this work

Overview

Standing Nude Binding Her Hair is a 1879 drawing by British artist John Dawson Watson, executed in pen and brown ink over graphite.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a nude female figure in a relaxed standing pose, engaged in the intimate act of binding her hair. The subject's body is oriented towards the right, with her long hair cascading down her back. Her right arm is raised, hand grasping a section of hair, conveying a sense of quiet, personal moment.

Technique & Style

Watson employed simple lines and minimal shading, characteristic of a quick sketch or study. The plain, neutral background emphasizes the figure, while the overall simplicity and directness align with Impressionist tendencies.

History & Provenance

Created in 1879, the drawing reflects Watson's versatility across mediums, honed through studies at the Manchester School of Design. Notably, Watson was the father of Impressionist painter Dawson Dawson-Watson.

Context

This drawing falls within the nude genre, a common subject in 19th-century art. Its execution and style suggest Watson's awareness of emerging Impressionist practices, despite his own broader artistic output.

Legacy

While specific impact of Standing Nude Binding Her Hair on the broader art historical canon is not well-documented, it contributes to the understanding of Watson's diverse artistic explorations and his family's contribution to Impressionism through his son.