Egon Schiele, Manner of (Austrian, 1890-1918) : Two Nude Women Embracing, ca 1913. Pencil and crayon on paper, signed and dated (1911) in the center. Verso shows decorative stamp. Unframed.
Compared to the highly charged and shockingly candid self-portraits and sketches of nude women he executed around this time, the style of the present work appears more conventional at first consideration. The contours of her body are obscured by her costume, which only reveals her hands and face, and it is through these features the intensity of this model is exposed. With her soft yet beautifully rendered lips and eyes, she confronts the viewer with an unflinching gaze. Although this portrait of a young girl does not display the open sexuality, the girl's features are rendered with a remarkable sensuality.
Egon Schiele was a leading figure of the Austrian Expressionist movement most well known for his emotionally and sexually-charged portraits and self-portraits. Schiele frequently drew himself or his sitters in the nude from unsettling angles and in revealing, erotic poses. His work boldly defies conventional norms of beauty and instead focuses on creating a raw, direct and often shocking depiction of his subject.
49 x 29.9 cm; 19 x 12.5 inches
Private collection England, Estate of Silvio Aguayo Espejo Vina del Mar Chile
Good condition, the paper is toned and shows light foxing and rippled along the edges.
NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.