Sketch of two female figures to the painting ‘Martyrdom of St. Josaphat Kuntsevych’ 1861

This is a preliminary sketch for the painting *Martyrdom of St. Josaphat Kuntsevych* by Polish artist Józef Simmler. Executed in 1861, it depicts two female figures, one standing with her arms raised, the other kneeling with her head bowed. The gestural quality of the lines emphasizes the emotional intensity of the figures, possibly representing the grief and sorrow that surrounded the event. This preparatory drawing is a testament to Simmler’s meticulous approach to artistic creation, providing insight into the development of his final composition.