Nude Figure Studies (Recto); Sheet of Figure Studies (Verso) 16th century

These nude figure studies of a male and female were created by an anonymous artist in pen and brown ink on paper. In its time, the drawing would have contributed to a lineage that largely situated the male nude as a symbol of heroism and ideal beauty, while representations of women often reinforced notions of passivity and otherness. The anonymity of the artist offers an opportunity to reflect on who has historically been granted the authority to represent the body. Whose gaze is privileged and whose is marginalized? The figures might suggest alternative narratives, subverting traditional gender roles, but we do not have enough information about the artist or the context in which they were made. These images challenge us to consider how our perception of the body is shaped by historical, social, and cultural forces. Though seemingly simple, these figures invite us to reflect on the complex interplay between identity, representation, and power.