The Sleepers
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About Reproduction
Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The Sleepers", originally brought to life by the talented Gustave Courbet. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Gustave Courbet and his artistic vision.
Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.
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Painting Description
''The Sleepers'' (French: ''Le Sommeil''), also known as ''The Indolent Women'' or ''Lust'', is an erotic oil painting created in 1866 by the renowned French artist Gustave Courbet. The painting is notable for its provocative subject matter, depicting two naked women entwined in an intimate embrace on a bed, asleep after lovemaking. Measuring 135 cm × 200 cm (53 in × 79 in), the work is a bold representation of female sensuality and homoeroticism, which was quite scandalous and ahead of its time given the social mores of the 19th century.
Courbet, a leader of the Realist movement, was known for his unflinching dedication to depicting subjects as they were, often challenging the established artistic and moral conventions of his day. ''The Sleepers'' is no exception, as it presents a candid and unidealized portrayal of its subjects, which was a stark contrast to the romanticized and mythological representations of women common in the art of the period.
The painting's composition, with its use of soft, diffused light and rich, warm color palette, emphasizes the sensuality and tranquility of the scene. The figures are rendered with a palpable sense of weight and volume, showcasing Courbet's skill in capturing the textures of skin and fabric.
Commissioned by the Turkish diplomat and art collector Khalil Bey, ''The Sleepers'' was part of his private collection of erotic art, which also included Courbet's equally famous ''L'Origine du monde'' (The Origin of the World). The painting's explicit content meant that it was not exhibited publicly during Courbet's lifetime. It was kept private to avoid censorship and the wrath of the authorities.
Today, ''The Sleepers'' is considered an important work in Courbet's oeuvre and a significant piece in the history of art for its frank depiction of female sexuality. It is often discussed in the context of gender studies, queer theory, and the politics of the gaze. The painting is housed in the Petit Palais, Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris, where it continues to attract attention and scholarly interest for its artistic and cultural significance.
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Lead Time & Shipping
When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.
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Return & Refund
We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.