Abklatsch van de krijttekening op pagina 18 c. 1887 - 1892

Willem Witsen’s chalk drawing presents us with a figure reclining, rendered with delicate, almost spectral lines. The posture—relaxed, with a hint of languor—immediately evokes the classical motif of the reclining figure. Think of the ancient Roman sarcophagi, where the deceased are often depicted in repose, a symbol of eternal rest and contemplation. This motif transcends time, reappearing in Renaissance paintings of Venus and other mythological figures. Yet, here, the sketch is unidealized, imbued with a sense of modern ennui. This pose, carried through centuries, signifies not just rest but also a deeper introspection, a turning inward. Its endurance speaks to our collective fascination with moments of stillness. From ancient friezes to modern sketches, the reclining figure continues to resonate, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on the ever-evolving human condition.