Astrid

A brilliantly executed and emotive mid-century modernist style figurative composition that presents a contemplative nude figure, executed in oil onto canvas and dated 1960.

The figure, constructed through broad angular planes and softened edges, is seated in a relaxed pose, one leg bent and the torso subtly twisted – creating a gentle rhythm that guides the viewer’s gaze through the composition.

Executed in a restrained yet warm palette of ochre, sienna, and earthy umber, the body is set against a backdrop of powder blue, grey, and dusty taupe. This juxtaposition of warm and cool tones imbues the painting with both emotional tension and visual calm.

The brushwork is expressive but controlled, with textured applications of paint that oscillate between opaque coverage and dry-brush translucency, revealing the wood grain beneath. There’s a tactile quality to the strokes – layered, scraped, and directional – that accentuates the structural anatomy of the figure while maintaining abstraction.

This oil on canvas is housed in a complementary slim wood frame. The painting’s surface exhibits areas of craquelure, consistent with age. While the paint layer remains stable across most of the canvas, there is some instability noted in the central section beneath the figure’s chest. The frame is in good vintage condition.