The sketch features a king figure in a dynamic pose, rendered in soft, muted tones. The figure is depicted nude, highlighting the muscular form and regal bearing. The background is minimal, allowing the viewer to focus on the figure's expression and posture.

The overall composition suggests movement and drama, characteristic of Romanticism. This work is a preliminary sketch, likely created with pencil or charcoal on paper. The lines are fluid, capturing the essence of the figure rather than detailing every feature. The dimensions are approximately 25 x 35 cm, making it a manageable size for study or display.

The lack of color emphasizes the form and structure of the figure. Józef Simmler was a Polish artist known for his historical and genre paintings. This sketch is a study for his larger work, ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’, which depicts a significant moment in Polish history. An interesting fact about this sketch is that it reveals Simmler's process of developing his figures, showcasing his attention to anatomy and movement.

Such studies were common among artists of the Romantic period as they sought to convey emotion and narrative.