Odalisque IV

Odalisque, or a reclining female nude, is a common subject through history—one artists continue to explore in different ways. Manuel Neri, who initially intended to become an engineer, was drawn into art by contemporary and innovative ceramics in California. The marks seen on the sculpture indicate the subtractive process of creating sculpture through carving and chiseling, and show evidence of the artist.

Manuel Neri. Odalisque IV, 1994, Marble, 20 x 60.5 x 48 inches. Gift of Fred and Lena Meijer. © Manuel Neri