'Seated Nude Woman' by Antoine Serra (c. 1960s)

In 'Seated Nude Woman', ink and gouache on paper (circa 1960s), Serra's ability to capture a mood and a moment in time is on display. His paintbrush records his nude subject seated somewhat awkwardly on a sofa leaning slightly on the arm rest for support. She seems lost in her thoughts nervously fidgeting with her hands. The colours are vibrant - greens and blues alongside more subtle orange and purple - reflecting perfectly the mood of the model. This painting is in its original frame with new glass and mount. In very good vintage condition. Signed by the artist in the lower righthand corner: 'A. Serra'. A short video clip of this work can be provided upon request.

About the Artist: Antoine Serra (1908 - 1995), was a French artist of Sardinian origin. Son of impoverished parents, the family moved to Marseille when he was of a young age. Having to work as a painter of buildings while still a child, he became keenly aware of the inequalities in the social classes. On a break from his painting of walls, he was inspired by an artist painting the sailboats of Marseille's coastal waters from his easel along the quay wall. He decided at that moment what his vocation in life would be and later convinced his mother to enrol him in the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Marseille. While studying, Serra was awarded numerous first prizes for his works. In the 1920s and 30s the artist exhibited with a group called the 'Painters of the People' including Louis Toncini and Simon Auguste among others. Eventually he settled in Provence in an old farmhouse at the foot of Baux de Provence where he found his own voice. 

Serra's paintings have been exhibited worldwide in both museums and private collections and have been sold widely at auction. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 42.5 cm (16.7")

W 33 cm (13.0")

Dimensions without frame:

H 27 cm (10.6")

W 21.5 cm (8.5")