A Muse from the Sarcophagus of the Muses 1775 - 1780

"A Muse from the Sarcophagus of the Muses" is a pencil drawing created by Jacques-Louis David between 1775 and 1780. The drawing depicts a woman in classical drapery, her head resting on her hand, in a pose suggestive of contemplation and artistic inspiration. This is a typical Neoclassical subject, characterized by the emphasis on idealized forms and classical themes. David, a leading figure of Neoclassicism, explored the classical world as a source of inspiration for his art. His interest in Greek and Roman sculpture is reflected in the detailed anatomical rendering and the idealized beauty of the figure in this drawing. This sketch, potentially a preparatory study for a larger work, showcases David's mastery of drawing and his dedication to the Neoclassical aesthetic.