A reversed study after the figure of Botany in the Allegory of the Sorbonne.

Seated Female Figure Seen from Behind, 1889

Not on Viewexpand_more

This pastel is a reduction after Puvis de Chavannes' Allegory of the Sorbonne mural from 1889. The large fresco is in the Grand Amphitheater at the University of the Sorbonne in Paris and is filled with figures that represent different academic disciplines and divisions within the university. This nude, for example, represents Botany, indicated by the flowers in her lap).

In this pastel, the artist has slightly reworked the painted figure so that the nude could stand as an independent work of art. Puvis de Chavannes often worked in pastel and his characteristic long, sweeping cross-hatches, directional strokes, and limited outlining are visible in this work.

Details
Title
Seated Female Figure Seen from Behind
Artist Life
1824 - 1898
Role
Artist
Accession Number
67.65
Provenance
[Durand-Ruel, Paris, until 1891; sold February 28, for $6,000, to Hill]; James J. Hill, St. Paul (from 1891-d.1916); his daughter, Charlotte Hill Slade, St. Paul (1916-d.1923); her grandson, G. Richard Slade, Mound, Minnesota (until 1967; sold to MIA)
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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A reversed study after the figure of Botany in the Allegory of the Sorbonne.