Artwork
Two Women of Pleasure
Two Women of Pleasure is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Constantin Guys. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Two Women of Pleasure is a drawing created by Constantin Guys around 1864 using graphite and black wash. It exemplifies his work as an illustrator and observer of contemporary life.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts two women in long dresses with low-cut tops, styled hair, and earrings, standing together against a lightly sketched background with other figures. The scene appears to capture a moment from everyday life, reflecting Guys' interest in social scenes.
Technique & Style
Guys employed graphite and black wash to achieve a sense of depth and texture. The realistic rendering of the women's clothing and hairstyles suggests a detailed study, possibly preparatory work for a larger composition.
Artist & collection
Artist
Constantin Guys (born Ernest-Adolphe Guys de Saint-Hélène, December 3, 1802 – December 13, 1892) was a French Crimean War correspondent, water color painter and illustrator for British and French newspapers.
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