Francesco Hayez, Odalisque
This posing nude, probably studied from life and characterized from a stylistic point of view by the suggestive solution of the relationship between finished and unfinished, must be compared to a series of similar figures that we find in the latest production of the painter who, now retired from teaching at the Brera Academy and from his commitments to historical painting, he dedicated himself to portraits and this type of research on the female nude.
As stated by Prof. Mazzocca, the painter's greatest expert, this work "offers the proof of his ability to treat the naked female figure, a theme that has always been congenial to him. We also find here a great sensuality and a naturalness derived from the comparison on the True".
"As in other cases the artist seems to meditate on the transience of beauty and the inexorable passing of youth." This work appears to be in perfect harmony with the ideals of Romanticism that Hayez - best of all - was able to embody.
FRANCESCO HAYEZ
(Venice, 1791 - Milan, 1882)
Odalisque, 1865 - 1870 circa
Oil on canvas, 60 x 52 cm