Nude in the Renaissance

Exhibition March 3 − June 2, 2019
The Royal Academy of Arts in London proposes to trace the development of the nude genre through the works of several great masters of the Renaissance period. By combining the work of artists such as Titian, Raphael, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Durer and Cranach, the exhibition"Nu in the Renaissance" sheds light on this visual tradition at its most vital moment.

The 15th and 16th centuries were key for nudes in Western art. Renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman art pushed the human body to the forefront of artistic innovations. Artists on both sides of the Alps copied classical models, experimented with naturalistic approaches, and also studied new non-religious themes. At the same time, the naked figure transformed Christian art, encouraging modern and dynamic representations of centuries-old themes, from the story of Adam and Eve to the crucifixion.

This impressive exhibition explores these important changes in a selection of exquisite works - from full-size paintings to illustrations, bronze figurines and anatomical studies. Together they give an idea of the visual tradition, which has become central in European art and still resonates with artists and viewers.