About this piece
back to topA reclining male nude study by renowned Post-War British artist and educator Richard Robbins (1927-2009).
Formed in an expressive style with an abstract figuration, this masterfully sculpted bronze conveys the male form in a deeply emotive position.
The figure gazes into its curved right hand as if shielding an object from view. The left hand is opposing, spread and raised, appearing larger and releasing. The body is relaxed with the legs crossed and resting in a natural state.
The mastery of the artist is revealed through the deep expression of a face with few features.
Richard Robbins (1927-2009)
Son of highly decorated economist Lord Lionel Robbins, Richard was born in London in 1927. Robbins joined the Royal Artillery’s 21st Field Training Regiment at the age of 18 at the end of the war in 1945.
Finding himself stationed in Venice he took the opportunity to study Venetian art. Leaving the army in 1948 he returned to education. First, English at New College Oxford before studying painting at Goldsmiths’ College in London, the Ruskin School of Art and the Slade School of Fine Art.
He began a career in teaching where he became head of painting and later fine art at Hornsea College of Art. During his teaching he was a prolific artist in the medium of bronze which he continued into his retirement alongside his paintings. In 2004, he was made an Honorary Member of the Royal Society of British Artists. His memory is honoured with an award in his name given by the Open College of Arts.
