Models 2 Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The drawing presents a study of the human figure, rendered in charcoal on paper. Four distinct poses are displayed, arranged vertically within the composition. The upper portion features three standing or seated figures, while the lower section depicts a reclining individual.
The first figure stands with one arm bent and raised behind the back, suggesting a posture of relaxed contemplation or stretching. A second figure is seen from the rear, emphasizing the curvature of the spine and the form of the buttocks. The third figure sits, her gaze directed forward, exhibiting an air of quiet introspection. All three figures are depicted with a degree of anatomical simplification; details are suggested rather than meticulously rendered, prioritizing the overall impression of form over precise representation.
The lower portion of the drawing showcases a reclining figure, positioned diagonally across the page. The pose is languid and vulnerable, exposing the torso and limbs in a manner that invites observation. A circular outline loosely encompasses this final figure, creating a sense of enclosure or isolation.
The artist’s use of charcoal allows for a range of tonal values, from deep blacks to light greys, which contribute to the modeling of form. The lines are fluid and expressive, conveying a sense of immediacy and spontaneity. There is an absence of background detail, directing the viewers attention solely to the figures themselves.
Subtly, the arrangement of the poses suggests a progression or sequence – a study in movement and stillness. The vertical layout reinforces this notion, presenting the figures as discrete moments within a larger exploration of human form. The reclining figure at the bottom introduces an element of repose, contrasting with the more active postures above. This juxtaposition may imply themes of vulnerability, introspection, and the cyclical nature of physical existence.