die funf sinne geruch Hans Makart (1840-1884)

The composition presents a female figure positioned centrally within a densely shadowed environment. The vertical format emphasizes her elongated form and directs the viewers gaze upwards. She is partially draped in what appears to be a loosely gathered cloth, revealing much of her body. Her pose suggests movement; she seems to step forward, one foot planted firmly while the other is raised slightly off the ground.
The woman holds a cluster of flowers close to her face, inhaling deeply. This gesture, combined with the title referencing scent, immediately establishes a connection to the sense of smell and its evocative power. The flowers themselves are rendered in rich detail, their colors vibrant against the darker background. They appear almost tangible, contributing to the overall sensory experience the work aims to convey.
The surrounding foliage is indistinct, forming an impenetrable backdrop that isolates the figure. This darkness serves not only as a visual contrast but also symbolically suggests a realm beyond immediate perception – a space where sensations and emotions reside. The lighting focuses intensely on the woman’s body, highlighting its curves and contours with a warm, golden glow. This concentrated illumination creates a sense of intimacy and draws attention to her physicality.
The figures expression is difficult to discern precisely; however, there is an air of contemplative pleasure or perhaps even melancholy in her gaze. The combination of sensual exposure and inward focus suggests a complex interplay between the physical world and internal experience. There’s a deliberate ambiguity regarding her identity – she could be interpreted as a mythological figure, an allegory for sensory perception, or simply a representation of human vulnerability and connection to nature.
The overall effect is one of heightened sensuality and introspective contemplation, inviting viewers to consider the power of scent and its ability to evoke memory, emotion, and a deeper understanding of oneself.