schneewittchen erhalt den giftkamm Hans Makart (1840-1884)

The composition presents a scene steeped in dramatic tension and shadowed by foreboding. Here we observe two figures within a dense, overgrown woodland setting. The foreground is dominated by a young woman, seated on what appears to be a low stone ledge or embankment. She wears a flowing white gown, its folds suggesting both vulnerability and an attempt at modesty. Her posture is one of passive acceptance; her gaze directed downwards, seemingly lost in thought or resignation.
Standing over her is another figure, clad in crimson robes with a draped cloth partially obscuring their face. This individual’s stance conveys a sense of purposefulness, almost predatory stillness. The hand extended towards the young woman holds what appears to be a comb, its significance immediately suggesting an act of deception or malicious intent.
The surrounding foliage is rendered with loose brushstrokes and a palette dominated by deep greens, browns, and blacks. This creates an atmosphere of claustrophobia and mystery, effectively isolating the two figures from any sense of external support or rescue. Light filters sporadically through the canopy above, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in profound darkness. The selective illumination draws attention to the faces of the characters and emphasizes the contrast between their expressions – the young woman’s quiet sorrow versus the veiled figures inscrutable purpose.
The painting evokes a sense of impending doom. The overgrown setting suggests a place outside of civilization, a realm where morality is ambiguous and danger lurks. The crimson robes worn by the standing figure are symbolic of passion or even violence, while the white gown of the seated woman represents innocence and purity – qualities that seem about to be violated.
Subtly, the composition hints at themes of betrayal and manipulation. The obscured face of the standing figure prevents immediate judgment, suggesting a complexity beyond simple villainy. It implies a deeper psychological drama unfolding between these two individuals, one rooted in power dynamics and concealed motives. The comb itself becomes a potent symbol – an everyday object transformed into an instrument of potential harm, highlighting the insidious nature of malice disguised as familiarity or care.