In Two sketches of Barbara lying in bed for the painting ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’, we see two distinct sketches of a woman named Barbara. The sketches capture her in a relaxed pose, lying in bed, with soft lines and gentle shading. The color palette is likely muted, focusing on the subtleties of light and shadow.

The overall composition suggests intimacy and a moment of stillness. The sketches are executed in pencil on paper, showcasing Simmler's skill in capturing the human form with precision. The lines are fluid and expressive, revealing the artist's attention to detail. Viewers can observe the way the fabric of the bedding interacts with Barbara's figure, adding depth to the sketches.

These technical aspects highlight Simmler's ability to convey emotion through simple yet effective means. Józef Simmler was a Polish artist known for his romantic and historical themes. This particular work serves as a preparatory study for a larger painting, ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’, which reflects on themes of mortality and beauty. An interesting fact about this work is that it captures a private moment, emphasizing the vulnerability of the subject.

It showcases Simmler's ability to blend realism with romantic ideals.