Study of a Sleeping Woman c. 1867

"Study of a Sleeping Woman" is a charcoal drawing by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, created around 1867. The artwork depicts a reclining female figure in a relaxed, almost languid pose, highlighting the artist's interest in the human form. Chavannes, known for his large-scale murals, was a proponent of a style that emphasized simplicity, clarity, and a restrained palette. The drawing, with its subtle shading and delicate lines, exemplifies his aesthetic principles, capturing the peaceful essence of slumber. Currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, this intimate study serves as a glimpse into Chavannes' artistic process and his enduring fascination with the human figure.