Studies of angels for the painting ‘The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ 1864

This is a study of angels by Józef Simmler, created in 1864, for his painting “The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.” The preparatory sketch is composed of two figures, both angels, rendered in graphite on a paper background. The larger figure, an angel with wings, is rendered kneeling with drapery around its legs. The smaller figure, a younger angel, is rendered leaning on its elbow, with a hand holding a long piece of fabric. The details of the figures and their poses are likely preparatory sketches for the larger painting. Simmler was a Polish painter known for his religious works and his use of realistic detail. This study is a rare example of Simmler's process and shows his meticulous approach to figure drawing.