Reclining Female Nude
Drawing on paper • Jules S. Kezelon (based on signature)
Style & Movement
Mid-20th Century Academic or Studio Realism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and graphite (or ink) wash on paper
Creation Period
1946 (dated October 15, 1946)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 12 inches (viewable); landscape format
Subject Description
A classical reclining female nude figure positioned horizontally across the composition. The model is propped on her right elbow, head slightly turned toward the viewer. The artist employs soft washes of earth tones to define muscular form and shadow, with linear outlines providing structural detail.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; exhibiting significant paper distortion and age-related discoloration.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Private collection; signature indicates a specific artist, but no further gallery or exhibition labels are visible to establish ownership history.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century life drawing exercises. While the artist is not a high-profile figure in the mainstream art index, the work reflects the continuing tradition of academic study and anatomical observation in the 1940s.
Notable Features
Signed 'Jules S. Kezelon' and dated '10-15-46' in the lower right corner. The French-style matting with hand-drawn lines suggests a mid-century framing aesthetic.
Condition Issues
Severe paper undulation (cockling) due to improper mounting or humidity; moderate foxing/acid spotting visible; overall yellowing/toning of the paper support due to acidic backing or UV exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional flattening and deacidification; reframing using archival, acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent further light damage and paper degradation.