Studies of Nudes

Studies of Nudes — Pierre Bonnard. c. 1924.

Medium: black chalk on cream wove paper. Dimensions: Sheet: 38.1 x 25.4 cm (15 x 10 in.).

Collection record: The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland. Museum connection according to this source; current display unverified.

This sheet features five distinct sketches of a nude woman stepping into or standing in a tub. The subject was one that Pierre Bonnard favored throughout his career and explored in a variety of media, including painting, drawing, prints, and photography. The model seen here is likely Marthe, the artist's longtime companion, who frequently posed for his works. Her unrehearsed poses and seeming unawareness of the artist and viewer's presence give the images a distinct sense of intimacy.

Source: official collection record. Metadata selected and normalized by Artline from the source export, accessed 10 September 2026; no museum endorsement. Reproduction rights are separate.