#32749 Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The drawing presents a scene steeped in melancholy and apprehension. A man stands before an open window, his posture suggesting both surprise and a desperate reaching out. His hands are extended towards a large bird – likely a raven – that is positioned mid-flight just beyond the window frame. The figures hair appears disheveled, and his clothing hangs loosely, contributing to an overall impression of vulnerability and distress.
The composition directs attention immediately to the window, which dominates the upper portion of the image. Heavy draperies cascade down on either side, creating a sense of enclosure while simultaneously framing the external world – represented by the bird’s presence. The shutters are partially open, allowing a glimpse into what appears to be an interior space beyond.
The artist has employed strong contrasts in value to create depth and emphasize certain elements. The man is rendered with considerable detail, highlighting his emotional state through facial expression and body language. The raven, though silhouetted against the lighter background, possesses a distinct presence, its wings spread wide as if poised for flight or perhaps an ominous descent.
The setting appears to be a domestic interior, suggested by the chair visible on the right side of the frame and the small table in the lower left corner. The floor is rendered with a textured pattern that adds visual interest and grounds the scene.
Subtextually, the drawing evokes themes of loss, grief, and perhaps an encounter with the supernatural or the unknown. The raven, traditionally associated with ill omens and death, could symbolize a messenger from beyond, or represent a haunting memory intruding upon the man’s solitude. His gesture – a reaching out – suggests a desire for connection, but also a potential inability to grasp what is offered. The closed-off interior space contrasts sharply with the open window and the birds freedom, hinting at a sense of confinement and longing. Overall, the drawing conveys an atmosphere of profound sadness and psychological turmoil.