A Maid Asleep

Johannes Vermeer

ca. 1656–57

Oil on canvas

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

A young woman is depicted asleep at a table, her head resting on her hand. The table is covered with an ornate rug and holds a bowl of fruit and a white pitcher. The deep red of the rug and the dark, muted tones of the background create a tranquil and intimate atmosphere, focusing attention on the quiet repose of the sleeping figure.