Wall label

The Sleeping Gypsy

Henri Rousseau, 1844–1910 · 1897

A lion sniffs at a sleeping traveller under a full moon in the desert.

Why it's great for language

A still, dreamy scene — perfect for storytelling and speculation.

A gentle note

Henri Rousseau's work fits animals, weather, nature better than "present simple". Try one of those focuses, or pick another artist from the gallery.

More by Henri Rousseau

Tiger in a Tropical Storm

The Sleeping Gypsy

On view

The Football Players

Tap a painting to switch — your level and focus stay the same.

Set the room

Shape the lesson

The painting adapts to your focus — chosen now: The Sleeping Gypsy.

CEFR level

Language focus

Pick one thing your students will actually walk out able to do.

Duration

Optional finishEnd with an art response (students make their own)Learners create their own artwork inspired by the painting's style, subject or mood — and use the target language while planning, labelling and presenting it.

Make it yours

One thing about your class — and the lesson will feel built for them.

Optional — but teachers who add this say the lesson lands better.

A complete lesson, painted around The Sleeping Gypsy.