381 - K. ERNST (1758–1830), *The Sleeping Pasithea*, 1799, etching

K. ERNST (1758–1830), *The Sleeping Pasithea*, 1799, etching Karl Mathias Ernst (1758, Mannheim – 1830, ibid.): The Sleeping Pasithea, Female Nude, 1799, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Stamp: Collector’s stamp, Lugt no.: 4401. Unknown/not identified. Mark: “A. R.”, unknown. 18th century Inscription: Inscribed, signed, and dated on the printing plate below the oval-framed image: “Pasithea Dormante | Dedicated to Monsieur Daniel Albegg, lover of the fine arts and merchant in Elbingen, by his servant Charles Matthias Ernst, Mannheim, 1799.” Date: 1799 Description: Erotic portrait of the sleeping Pasithea. This mythological figure from ancient Greece is one of the Graces and is considered the servant of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. She is also considered the wife of Hypnos, the god of sleep. Keywords: 18th century, Classicism, Mythology, Germany, Size: Paper: 35.5 cm x 49.3 cm (14 x 19.4 in), Plate: 25.6 cm x 27.5 cm (10.1 x 10.8 in), Image: 18.9 cm x 23.7 cm (7.4 x 9.3 in) Condition: Good condition. The sheet edges are uncut and soiled in places, as well as damaged by isolated tears and bumps. There is a large diagonal crease in the upper right corner. Slightly soiled and somewhat creased in places, especially in the margins. The image is in very good condition.