Le sommeil d'après Courbet 1955

Bernard Buffet painted "Le sommeil d'après Courbet" with a distinct visual approach, using a muted palette and sharp, angular lines that convey a sense of unease. The composition, reminiscent of Courbet, features two entwined figures, yet Buffet's interpretation diverges through its stark stylization. His linear construction and subdued coloration create a spatial tension, flattening the figures and emphasizing the surface of the painting. This technique serves to disrupt traditional notions of depth and form, challenging our perception of the intimate subject matter. Buffet's work also engages with existentialist themes, using the formal elements to create a feeling of alienation and psychological distance. Observe how the lines define not only the shapes but also the emotional tone of the painting. This reflects a broader cultural anxiety present in postwar art, where artists questioned established values and explored new ways of representing the human condition.