Girl playing mandolin Anders Zorn (1860-1920)

Here we observe a young woman seated and engaged in playing a stringed instrument – a mandolin – within what appears to be an interior space. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the figures posture and the flow of light across her form.
The artist has employed a loose watercolor technique, characterized by washes of color and visible brushstrokes that contribute to a sense of immediacy and spontaneity. Light streams in from the left, illuminating the woman’s face and upper body while casting the surrounding areas into shadow. This creates a dramatic contrast, drawing attention to her expression and the act of playing. The light also highlights the delicate details of her dress – a flowing garment adorned with floral patterns rendered in muted tones of green, blue, and yellow against a creamy white background.
The woman’s gaze is directed slightly downward, suggesting concentration or perhaps a touch of melancholy. Her posture is relaxed yet attentive; she leans forward towards the instrument, her fingers poised on the strings. The details of her face are softly rendered, avoiding sharp lines and contributing to an overall impression of youthful innocence and grace. A small floral adornment sits atop her head, echoing the patterns in her dress and reinforcing a sense of decorative elegance.
The background is indistinct, suggested rather than precisely defined. A draped fabric – likely part of a cushion or chair – is visible on the left side, while foliage hangs from above, hinting at an outdoor connection despite the interior setting. The floor appears to be tiled, adding another layer of texture and visual interest.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of leisure, domesticity, and perhaps a fleeting moment of artistic expression. The woman’s attire suggests a certain social standing, while her activity – playing music – implies refinement and cultural appreciation. Theres an underlying sense of quiet introspection; she is not performing for an audience but rather lost in the act of creation or enjoyment. The loose brushwork and soft lighting contribute to a dreamlike quality, suggesting that this scene represents a captured memory or idealized vision. The date inscribed at the bottom right corner – 89 – provides a temporal anchor, situating the work within a specific historical context without explicitly defining it.