Drawing Room 1943

"Drawing Room" is an oil painting by Balthus, completed in 1943. The painting depicts two young girls in a room with a sofa, table, and piano. The girl on the sofa appears to be asleep while the other girl is kneeling on the floor, looking at a piece of paper. This enigmatic scene exemplifies Balthus's signature style, known for its meticulous detail, ambiguous narrative, and suggestive imagery. The painting's composition and the girls' postures evoke a sense of quiet intimacy and the passage of time. "Drawing Room" is considered one of Balthus's most iconic works and is a compelling example of his talent for capturing the subtle complexities of human relationships.