Reclining Woman

1893

From sketch to photograph, and ultimately a painting, the genesis of the series of girls in kimonos can be clearly followed on the basis of Breitner’s study material. Looking closely you can see similarities, as well as the many adjustments Breitner made in the process of painting. He wrote: ‘I do indeed use photographs. I scribble in my sketchbook, but the choice, the composition is mine.’