Emilie Menzel Asleep 1848

"Emilie Menzel Asleep" is a painting by Adolph Menzel from 1848. The painting depicts Menzel's wife, Emilie, resting on a plush, crimson couch. The piece captures Emilie in a moment of repose, her figure draped in rich brown fabrics, with a blue pillow nestled at her side. The focus on Emilie's serene form emphasizes the intimacy of the scene, highlighting the artist's tender affection for his wife. Menzel's masterful handling of light and shadow, along with his attention to detail, creates a sense of realism and depth within the composition, placing the viewer in a moment of quiet contemplation.