Sleep 1885

Léon Bazile Perrault painted Sleep using oil on canvas. The choice of oil paint allowed Perrault to create smooth gradations and soft contours, ideal for representing delicate skin. The child’s form is idealized, perhaps referencing classical sculptures. But the painting goes beyond simply depicting a pretty scene. Think about the labor involved in creating such a highly finished painting. The grinding of pigments, the careful layering of glazes, the skilled brushwork – all speak to hours of dedicated work. The red textile beneath the child is an interesting detail. It is a very material, even tactile presence that contrasts with the smoothness of the child’s body. The crumpled linen on which the child’s feet rest also speaks to the unseen labor of domestic life, which enables the child’s peaceful rest. By considering the materials, the making, and the social context, we can appreciate the rich complexities of this work, seeing beyond its surface beauty to recognize the many hands and histories involved in its creation.