She Wondered How A Pumpkin Could Help Her Get To The Ball Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The drawing presents a domestic interior, rendered in a style reminiscent of late nineteenth-century illustration. A young woman stands facing an older figure seated on what appears to be a large pumpkin or gourd. The scene is bathed in shadow, with the light source seemingly emanating from the pumpkin itself, creating a focal point and highlighting the interaction between the two women.
The younger woman’s posture conveys a mixture of curiosity and apprehension; she leans forward slightly, her gaze fixed intently on the older figures hands. Her attire suggests a modest social standing – a simple dress with an apron – contrasting subtly with the more elaborate, though obscured, clothing of the seated woman. The older woman is enveloped in shadow, making it difficult to discern precise details of her features, but her expression seems to be one of focused concentration as she manipulates something held within her hands.
The setting itself contributes significantly to the narrative’s atmosphere. A cluttered kitchen environment is visible – pots and pans hang from a rack on the wall, suggesting a working-class household. The presence of what appears to be dried herbs or meat hanging from hooks further reinforces this impression. A birdcage hangs near the ceiling, adding an element of domesticity and perhaps hinting at confinement or captivity.
Subtextually, the drawing seems to explore themes of transformation and assistance. The unusual nature of the pumpkin as a seat suggests a departure from the ordinary, implying that something extraordinary is about to occur. The older woman’s actions likely represent a magical intervention – she appears to be bestowing some kind of gift or enchantment upon the younger woman. This interaction hints at a narrative involving aid from an unexpected source and potentially a journey or quest undertaken by the young woman.
The use of chiaroscuro, with its dramatic contrasts between light and dark, amplifies the sense of mystery and intrigue. The shadows obscure details, encouraging the viewer to actively engage in interpreting the scene and anticipating what is about to unfold. Overall, the drawing establishes a compelling narrative moment steeped in folklore and hinting at a fantastical transformation.