Preview
Send
Share
Details
Download
Similars
X-Ray
DiaporamaThe pleasures of rest
Read More
Giclée / Art Print
Museum-quality giclée or canvas print with fast production and flexible finish options. (
Buy Hand Made Painting Buy Image)
P118B $10
P118H $10
P118W $10
P438Z $10
P508JH $12
P508YH $12
P805H $10
P805Z $10
P919BZ $10
P919G $10
P919XJ $10
P959ZH $10
P968JZ $12
W106C $8
W218G $10
W218JH $8
W218Y $10
W307PJ $10
W316G $10
W316PJ $8
W316Y $10
W398PJ $8
W4111J $10
W500HY $15
W500JH $15
W692G $12
W849H $8
W940BG $15
W953PJ $8
Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions.
You may enter your own dimensions to fit a specific frame or space. If your selected size does not match the original image's proportions, we will either crop the artwork or extend the image with a mirrored or solid-fill edge. A digital mockup will be sent for your approval before production begins.
Please note that the on-screen preview does not reflect the actual cropping or extension. Only the mockup will accurately show the final composition.
While custom sizes are available, we recommend selecting a dimension from the predefined list to preserve the original proportions.
Worldwide Delivery () in 2 weeks instead of standard 4/5 weeks. (23 August)
Free Worldwide Express Shipping
High-Quality Linen Canvas
Full Shipping Insurance
Customs Tax Refund Guarantee
True Color Matching Guarantee
60-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Bulk Discount Offer
Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM
The pleasures of rest
Giclée / Art Print
Reproduction Size
-
Total Price
$ 63
Collectible Description
A Poetic Interlude in Charcoal
In the quietude of 1946, Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika captured a moment of profound stillness with his evocative charcoal drawing, The Pleasures of Rest. This monumental work, spanning an impressive 283 x 202 cm, invites the viewer into a sanctuary of leisure and human connection. The scene unfolds within a stylized natural setting—perhaps a secluded garden or a sun-dappled park—where a group of figures is gathered in various states of repose. There is a rhythmic quality to the composition, as the artist uses overlapping forms and varying scales to guide the eye through a layered landscape of shared intimacy. The atmosphere is one of gentle tranquility, suggesting an overcast day where the light is soft, diffused, and devoid of harsh shadows, allowing the subtle nuances of the charcoal to breathe.
The technique employed by Hadjikyriakos-Ghika is a masterclass in the expressive potential of monochrome. Eschewing the need for color, the artist relies entirely on the interplay of light and shadow, achieved through varied pressure and meticulous shading. The lines are thick, bold, and deeply expressive, defining the silhouettes of the figures and the surrounding foliage with a certain architectural strength. These heavy outlines, paired with geometric, almost blocky shapes, push the work toward the realms of Expressionism and early Modernism. Rather than striving for photographic realism, the artist prioritsizes the emotional weight of form, using texture to suggest volume and presence, making each figure feel anchored within their environment.
The Intersection of Modernism and Human Connection
To understand The Pleasures of Rest, one must consider the artistic lineage of Hadjikyriakos-Ghika. A pivotal figure in the Greek modern art movement, his work often bridged the gap between classical sensibilities and the avant-garde energies of Paris. Having studied at the Académie Ranson and gained recognition in the French art scene—even earning praise from Picasso himself—his style carries a sophisticated, cosmopolitan edge. In this particular piece, we see the influence of Cubist fragmentation blended with a more lyrical, humanistic approach. The flattened perspective does not diminish the sense of depth; instead, it creates a decorative, tapestry-like effect that emphasizes the arrangement of the figures as much as their physical presence.
For the discerning collector or interior designer, this artwork offers a unique opportunity to introduce a piece of historical gravity and modern elegance into a space. The monochromatic palette makes it an incredibly versatile choice for sophisticated interiors, acting as a focal point that complements both minimalist contemporary settings and more traditional, classical rooms. The sheer scale of the work commands attention, yet its subject matter—the simple, universal joy of rest and conversation—ensures it remains approachable and emotionally resonant. It is not merely a depiction of a scene, but an invitation to pause, much like the figures within the frame, and find beauty in the quiet moments of existence.
Related Artworks
![Untitled [verso] — Mark Rothko, American Abstract Expressionism](/media/artworks/images-thumb/94/fc/94fc29b66c29c7bf389520dcd5e58334.jpg)
Artist Biography
**early life and education**
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika, a renowned greek painter, sculptor, engraver, writer, and academic, was born on february 26, 1906, in athens, greece. his family's legacy in the greek war of independence of 1821 significantly influenced his early life. between 1918-1922, his family recognized his artistic potential, leading to his study under the artist parthenis.**artistic development and exhibitions**
- in 1922, hadjikyriakos-ghika enrolled in a sorbonne university course for french literature and aesthetics, simultaneously attending académie ranson for painting and engraving studies.
- his first exhibition at the société des artistes indépendants (salon des indépendants) in 1923 marked the beginning of his prolific career.
- notably, picasso commented on his work, further solidifying his presence in the french art scene.
**collaborations and teaching**
- in 1934, he shared an exhibition with sculptor michael tombros, significantly impacting the athenian art world.
- between 1936-1937, he collaborated on the periodical "trito mati (the third eye)" with poet papatzonis, architect dimitris pikionis, and theatrical director sokratis karantinos.
- in 1941, he was elected professor of drawing at the national technical university of athens, a position he held until 1958.
**international recognition**
- in 1946, the british council in athens arranged his first retrospective exhibition, featuring 42 paintings.
- in 1949, he formed the "armos" art group with fellow artists yiannis moralis, yannis tsarouchis, nikos nikolaou, and panayiotis tetsis.
- he represented greece at the 25th venice biennale in 1950, exhibiting 17 canvases.
**legacy**
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika's works are featured in prominent museums worldwide, including:- the national gallery (athens)
- musée d'art moderne de la ville de paris
- tate gallery in london
- metropolitan museum of new york [https://ArtsDot.com/@/nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika](https://ArtsDot.com/@/nikos%20hadjikyriakos-ghika) | 12 artworks nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika | artworks [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/nikos_hadjikyriakos-ghikas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/nikos_hadjikyriakos-ghikas) - wikipedia: nikos hadjikyriakos-ghikas **key works:**
- the first morning of the world, stage design for the dance-drama (benaki museum of greek civilization, athens, greece)
- portrait of ferdinand vii (romanticism, oil) - not by nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika, but a notable example of his contemporaries' work.
- national gallery (athens)
- musée d'art moderne de la ville de paris
- tate gallery in london
- metropolitan museum of new york
**conclusion**
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika's profound impact on greek art, his pioneering role in cubism, and his extensive international recognition solidify his position as a leading figure in 20th-century art.
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika
1906 - 1994 , Greece
Quick Facts
- Artistic Movement Or Style: Cubism
- Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Modern Greek painting']
- Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Pablo Picasso']
- Date Of Birth: February 26, 1906
- Date Of Death: 1994
- Full Name: Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika
- Nationality: Greek
- Notable Artworks:
- The Pleasures of Rest
- The Studio in Hydra
- Place Of Birth: Athens, Greece
Related Articles
Romantic Landscapes: 10 Masterpieces for Your Home | ArtsDot
Journey through 10 Romantic landscape masterpieces by Friedrich, Turner & Cole. Explore emotional art, sublime nature scenes & iconic 19th-century paintings. Find museum-quality reproductions for your home at ArtsDot.com – discover the full collection online!
John Constable's Masterpieces: Explore 25 Iconic Landscapes for Your Home
Journey through John Constable's 25 most celebrated landscapes. Explore Romanticism, Dedham Vale & his masterful use of light in iconic paintings like 'Hay Wain'. Find museum-quality art reproductions and elevate your home decor on ArtsDot.com.
Evocations of Place: A Historical Journey Through Landscape Art
Explore the rich history of landscape art with ArtsDot. Discover renowned artists, movements like Impressionism & Romanticism, and expert guidance for collecting timeless pieces. Find your perfect serene escape today!
Evocations of Place: A Historical Journey Through Landscape Art
Explore the rich history of landscape art with ArtsDot. Discover renowned artists, movements like Impressionism & tonalism, and expert guidance for collecting timeless pieces. Find your perfect serene escape today!
Evoking Nature's Sublime: A Comprehensive Exploration of 19th-Century Landscape Painting
Explore the captivating world of 19th-century landscape painting! Discover renowned artists like Friedrich & Monet, key movements, and find the perfect artwork to bring nature's serenity into your home. Expert insights at ArtsDot.
