Seated Nude Back View (after Robert Lyn Nelson)
Fine art print on deckle-edged paper • Robert Lyn Nelson (American, born 1955)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Realism with Romantic influences
Medium & Technique
Lithography or high-quality offset print with a creased/textured faux-parchment effect on heavy-weight paper
Creation Period
Late 20th century (circa 1980-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; portrait orientation
Subject Description
A classical female nude study viewed from the back. The figure is shown from the knees up, holding a draped garment below the hips. The composition emphasizes the curvature of the spine and the play of light on skin, utilizing soft tonal gradations to create volume.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible surface texture appears intentional, but the paper shows signs of wavy distortion and potential humidity-related cockling within the frame.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $250 USD
Auction Estimate
$50 - $150 USD
Provenance History
Acquired from an estate sale; originally likely sold through commercial galleries or art expos during the peak of Nelson's popularity in the late 1980s.
Art Historical Significance
While Nelson is primarily known as a pioneer of the 'Modern Marine Art' movement (two-world marine paintings), this decorative piece represents his exploration of classical figurative subjects and different print media.
Notable Features
Features a printed signature in the upper right quadrant. The deckle edge of the paper is exposed, and the paper has a specific 'tobacco' or aged wash tone common in 1980s decorative editions.
Condition Issues
The print shows significant rippling (cockling), suggesting it is not mounted to a substrate and may be reacting to environmental moisture. The faux-creased texture is a stylistic choice but makes visual assessment of actual damage difficult.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-framing with acid-free matting and UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent further cockling and light-induced fading. Current wooden frame may be acidic.
Collector Notes
Estate sales