In Nu, main gauche près de l’épaule, Henri Matisse presents a nude figure positioned with the left arm resting near the shoulder. The colors are vibrant, with bold reds and blues contrasting against the skin tones. The background is simplified, focusing attention on the figure itself.

This composition showcases Matisse's characteristic use of color and form. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich color application and texture. Matisse's brushwork is visible, adding a sense of movement and life to the figure. The dimensions are approximately 65 x 81 cm, making it a medium-sized work that invites close examination.

The arrangement of colors and shapes reflects Matisse's modernist style. Henri Matisse was a leading figure in the Fauvism movement, known for his use of color and expressive forms. 'Nu, main gauche près de l’épaule' is an example of his exploration of the human body and its representation. An interesting fact about this work is that it reflects Matisse's shift towards abstraction, where he began to prioritize color and composition over realistic representation.