#08066 Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen

Here we observe a drawing executed in charcoal or a similar dry medium, depicting a female figure in a moment of transition. The subject is positioned in profile, her body turned slightly away from the viewer, emphasizing the curve of her back and the slope of her shoulders. She appears to be engaged in the act of putting on stockings, holding one up against her thigh while manipulating its upper edge.
The artist’s handling of charcoal is notable; broad strokes define the major contours of the body, while denser areas create a sense of shadow and volume. The background is rendered with loose, textured marks that suggest an indistinct space rather than a specific location. This lack of detail directs attention to the figure itself.
Theres a deliberate informality in the pose; it’s not a studied or idealized representation but captures a fleeting, everyday action. The partial nudity and the intimate nature of the activity contribute to a sense of vulnerability and immediacy. The drawing avoids any overt eroticism, instead presenting a glimpse into a private moment.
The composition is vertically oriented, which elongates the figure and accentuates her posture. The cropped edges suggest that this is part of a larger study or a quickly executed sketch. This contributes to the impression of spontaneity and observation. Subtly, the drawing hints at themes of domesticity and feminine routine, presented without sentimentality or judgment.