“The Dream” is an oil-on-canvas artwork created by the artist Balthus circa 1955. Belonging to the Expressionism movement, this genre painting measures 162 by 130 centimeters and is currently held in a private collection.
In the artwork, a woman reclines on a blue and beige patterned sofa, her head resting on a red pillow, suggesting a state of rest or sleep. Her green top and pink skirt add vibrancy against the muted background. Another figure, a woman in a green shirt and brown skirt, stands beside the sofa, holding a red flower with a delicate gesture. The setting includes a side table with a vase and minimalist decorations, presenting a serene yet enigmatic domestic scene which captures a moment of quiet interaction or contemplation. The use of light and shadow, combined with the simplicity of the composition, conveys a dreamy, introspective atmosphere.