Le Sommeil, 1866

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Le Sommeil, 1866", 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.

"Le Sommeil" (translated as "The Sleepers"), painted in 1866, is a provocative and significant work by the French artist Gustave Courbet, a leading figure in the 19th-century Realism movement. This oil on canvas painting, measuring 135 x 200 cm, is renowned for its daring depiction of eroticism and its departure from the traditional representations of female nudes in art of its time. The painting features two naked women, entwined in an intimate embrace on a disheveled bed, surrounded by a dimly lit room that enhances the private and sensual atmosphere of the scene.

Courbet's "Le Sommeil" was commissioned by the Turkish diplomat Khalil Bey, a notable collector of erotic art, who also owned Courbet's equally famous "L'Origine du monde" (The Origin of the World). The explicit content of "Le Sommeil" led to its immediate controversy upon its private unveiling. The depiction of lesbian love, rendered with Courbet's characteristic realism and attention to detail, challenged societal norms and the boundaries of acceptable art during the Second French Empire. Its bold subject matter and execution reflect Courbet's rejection of academic conventions and his commitment to portraying unidealized subjects drawn from real life.

The painting was not publicly exhibited until 1988, due to its explicit content and the potential scandal it could cause. Before that, it was kept out of the public eye, passing through the hands of various private collectors. Today, "Le Sommeil" is celebrated for its artistic courage and its pivotal role in the evolution of modern art. It resides in the collection of the Petit Palais, Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris, where it continues to fascinate and provoke discussions among art critics, historians, and the general public about the nature of art, sexuality, and the representation of women in the visual arts.

Through "Le Sommeil," Courbet not only challenged the artistic norms of his day but also contributed to the broader discourse on sexuality, gender, and the role of art in society. This work remains a testament to Courbet's legacy as an artist who dared to confront the moral and aesthetic boundaries of his time, paving the way for future generations of artists to explore themes of sexuality and intimacy with newfound openness and honesty.

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.

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.