La figura del dormiente

The article investigates the meaning of an iconography widespread in Italy during the interwar years, specifically the figure of the sleeper, exploring the significance of this particular representation in the paintings of Corrente’s movement. The subjects of these artists are often depicted sleeping but almost never in reclined poses; rather, they are leaning on an open book, dozing on folded arms, or sitting. The recurrence of this iconography is not accidental: it is layered with multiple artistic references ranging from Romantic models to the masters of European post-impressionism. These references are not purely aesthetic but are imbued with cultural and political meanings, constituting a subtle yet significant response to the societal vision promoted by the fascist propaganda of the time. Through iconographic and contextual analysis, the article outlines the role these representations played in offering a critical reflection on the human and social condition of the era.