Study of Jacob’s robes for the painting ‘The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ 1864

This pencil study by Polish artist Józef Simmler is a preparatory sketch for his painting *The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary*. Dated 1864, the drawing focuses on the drapery of the figure of Jacob, likely intended to appear in the final composition. Simmler's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the nuanced shading and meticulous rendering of the fabric's folds, which contribute to the overall sense of realism and depth in the artwork. This study exemplifies the artist's meticulous approach to his craft and his dedication to achieving a high level of realism.