Études de femmes assises 

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec made this sketch, titled Études de femmes assises, using pencil. It depicts two seated women, heads bowed and shrouded, in a state of quiet contemplation. This drawing offers a glimpse into the lives of marginalized women in late 19th-century France, particularly those working in brothels, a subject that Lautrec explored extensively. These women, often overlooked by mainstream society, are rendered here with a sympathetic eye, capturing a sense of their humanity. The drawing is part of a larger cultural dialogue that questions the social structures and moral judgements of the time. Historical context is key to our understanding of works like this one. By consulting historical documents, such as police records, medical reports, and sociological studies, we gain a deeper appreciation for the social conditions that shaped the artist's vision and the lives of his subjects.