Figural Drawing Appraisal

Framed Figural Drawing of Female Nude by Jackson (1940)

This item is a framed charcoal or graphite figure drawing, depicting a stylized female nude. The artwork is executed on what appears to be off-white or cream-colored paper. The figure is rendered with confident, expressive lines, showcasing a robust and somewhat exaggerated anatomical form, typical of pin-up or comic-style art. The pose is dynamic, with the figure leaning against an abstract, rectangular block, suggesting a contortionist or dancer's stance. The shading is achieved through cross-hatching and smudging, giving depth and form to the musculature. The artist has included some basic linear elements to define a support for the figure, but the background is otherwise blank, focusing attention solely on the figure. There are visible handwritten notations in the upper right corner, which appear to be 'JACKSON' and a date '11/11/40', suggesting the artist's signature and the execution date of November 11, 1940. This date places the piece squarely in the mid-20th century, aligning with the artistic styles of the 1940s which often featured idealized female forms. The drawing is housed in a prominent, ornate frame that appears to be made of wood with a gilt or gold-painted finish, accented with darker, possibly bronze or black, inner and outer perimeters. The frame features some decorative molding, indicating a more traditional or classic aesthetic. The drawing itself appears to be in good condition, with no overt tears, creases, or major discoloration visible, though the paper's coloration may be due to age-related toning. The frame also appears clean, with minor wear consistent with its age. The quality of the drawing suggests a skilled hand, likely from an artist with experience in figure studies or commercial illustration.