#45624 Arnold Böcklin (1827-1901)

The composition presents a scene set within a vaguely defined natural environment, dominated by muted greens and blues that contribute to a sense of melancholy or introspection. Here we see two figures – a male and a female – positioned near what appears to be the edge of a body of water. The man lies prone on the ground, his posture suggesting exhaustion or resignation. He extends an arm, holding a tray laden with fruit; the gesture seems hesitant, almost offered without expectation.
The woman stands adjacent to him, her gaze directed away from the viewer and towards something beyond the frame. Her body is partially draped in what looks like a simple garment, revealing much of her skin. The artist rendered her features with a certain delicacy, yet there’s an underlying sadness or detachment evident in her expression. A single berry falls from her hand, drawing attention to a sense of loss or fragility.
The background is indistinct, composed of blurred foliage and a sky punctuated by patches of light. This lack of clarity reinforces the focus on the two central figures and their interaction – or rather, their apparent disconnection. The limited palette and loose brushwork contribute to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
Subtly, the painting hints at themes of offering and rejection, abundance and loss. The fruit could symbolize sustenance or temptation, while the woman’s averted gaze suggests a refusal or inability to accept it. The fallen berry amplifies this sense of something precious being relinquished. Theres an ambiguity inherent in the scene; is it a moment of quiet intimacy, or one of profound alienation? The lack of definitive narrative allows for multiple interpretations, inviting viewers to project their own understanding onto the depicted scenario.