Artwork

Man Reclining on the Ground and the Corner of a Bed [verso]

Man Reclining on the Ground and the Corner of a Bed [verso], by Jean-Baptiste Deshays, chalk, 1762
Man Reclining on the Ground and the Corner of a Bed [verso], by Jean-Baptiste Deshays, chalk, 1762

Man Reclining on the Ground and the Corner of a Bed [verso] is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Jean-Baptiste Deshays. It dates from 1762 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Man Reclining on the Ground and the Corner of a Bed [verso] is a drawing created by Jean-Baptiste Deshays in 1762, executed in black and white chalks on brown laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a man reclining on the ground, his head resting on his arm, with a bed frame visible above him. The scene suggests a narrative moment, potentially capturing a character in a state of rest or repose.

Technique & Style

The work employs chiaroscuro, using contrasting light and dark values to create depth and drama. Loose, quick lines and varying shading convey a sense of spontaneity and experimentation, while the textured, brown paper adds to the sketchy, unfinished quality of the drawing.

History & Provenance

Created in 1762 by Jean-Baptiste Deshays, the drawing is a counterproof, indicating that it is a reversed impression of an original work.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.