Zittend mannelijk naakt, naar rechts met gestrekt been 1780

Jean Grandjean created this drawing, "Zittend mannelijk naakt, naar rechts met gestrekt been", with graphite, sometime in the late 18th century. At this time, European art academies emphasized the study of the nude male figure, considered essential for mastering anatomy and idealizing the human form. Grandjean’s drawing exists in the context of shifting social attitudes toward masculinity and the body. While the male nude had long been associated with heroism and strength, here, the man's relaxed pose and contemplative gaze present a softer, more vulnerable image. The artist’s choice to depict the figure in a naturalistic style, rather than an idealized one, may reflect the growing influence of Enlightenment ideals of individualism and emotional authenticity. The drawing invites us to consider the complex ways in which gender, sexuality, and power intersect in art. By challenging traditional representations of masculinity, Grandjean offers a glimpse into the evolving social and cultural landscape of his time.