Model having a cigarette Robert Lundberg (1861-1903)

The composition presents a scene within what appears to be an artists studio or rehearsal space. A female figure, presumably a dancer or model, occupies the foreground, lying prone on a patterned rug. Her posture is one of exhaustion and dejection; her head rests heavily upon her outstretched arm, while her body is angled away from the viewer. The loose-fitting white garment she wears suggests a costume or practice attire, with dark boots visible at her feet.
To the left, a small stove provides warmth and light, its metallic surface reflecting the ambient glow. A pile of discarded fabric lies near the stove, hinting at the creative process that has taken place within this room. In the background, draped fabrics – a pale green tutu among them – are suspended from what seems to be a makeshift rack or curtain rod. These suggest ongoing work and preparation for performance.
A small dog, positioned close to the figure’s head, gazes directly at the viewer with an expression that could be interpreted as concern or quiet observation. The animals presence introduces a domestic element into this otherwise austere setting.
The subdued color palette – dominated by earthy tones of brown and gray, punctuated by the white of the garment and the pale green of the tutu – contributes to the overall mood of melancholy and introspection. Light falls unevenly across the scene, creating areas of shadow that further emphasize the figure’s vulnerability.
Subtexts within this image revolve around themes of artistic labor, physical exertion, and emotional fatigue. The models posture suggests a moment of respite after intense work, perhaps reflecting the demanding nature of her profession. The discarded fabrics symbolize the transient quality of creative endeavors, while the dog offers a sense of companionship and solace in an environment that can be isolating. There is a quiet intimacy to the scene, as if the viewer has stumbled upon a private moment of vulnerability and reflection.