Study after Ingres' 'Odalisque à l'ésclave'

About this work

This sketch shows two reclining nude figures tangled in sheets and drapery. The lines are loose and quick, almost like scribbles, with no clear details on faces or bodies. The paper is plain, and the whole thing looks like a rough draft—no colors, just pencil strokes. The artist seems to be copying another painting, focusing more on shapes and movement than realism. The figures look like they’re wrapped up in fabric, but it’s all very abstract. If you like this sketchy style, check out cross-hatching for more on how artists use lines to build shadows.