Nude Man Standing, with Left Hand Raised (c. 1900)

Captivating in its expression and form, “Nude Man Standing, with Left Hand Raised” is a compelling work by the renowned French artist Edgar Degas, dating back to circa 1900. This exceptional drawing showcases Degas's adept skill in capturing human anatomy with a raw and expressive touch.The artwork features a male figure in a dynamic and somewhat contorted pose with his left hand raised and pressed against what seems to be an unseen vertical structure. His torso twists slightly, emphasizing the muscles and contours of his body which are rendered in bold, confident strokes. The figure’s raised arm and the turn of his body add a dramatic flair to the composition, suggesting movement and a moment captured in time.The use of charcoal allows for rich textures and deep shadows, highlighting Degas’s mastery in using this medium to convey not only the physicality of the human form but also the emotional state of the subject. The background remains bare, focusing all attention on the figure itself, and enhancing the sense of isolation and introspective nature of the pose.This piece is a remarkable example of Degas’s work outside his more commonly known studies of dancers and racehorses. It provides a fascinating glimpse into his broader interests in the human figure and his experimental approach to form and technique.