Sketch for ”Oath on the Rütli,” Female Figure (verso) Henry (Fussli Fuseli (1741-1825)

The sketch presents a group of figures arranged in a dynamic and emotionally charged composition. Here we observe three male forms, each engaged in a gesture suggesting solemnity or commitment. The figure on the left is dramatically raised, his arm extended upwards with an open palm, as if invoking something beyond the immediate scene. His skin tone is rendered in warm ochre hues, contrasting sharply with the cooler tones of the other figures and the background.
The central figure stands slightly behind and to the right, holding aloft a bladed object – likely a sword or dagger – which catches an unseen light source. The artist has emphasized the musculature of his torso and arms, conveying strength and resolve. His face is partially obscured, adding a layer of anonymity that could suggest representation of a collective rather than an individual.
To the right of the central figure stands another man, leaning forward with one arm outstretched towards the raised figure on the left. He holds what appears to be a shield, its dark surface reflecting little light. His posture conveys a sense of earnestness and participation in whatever ritual or pledge is taking place. The artist’s use of chiaroscuro – the interplay of light and shadow – is particularly effective here, sculpting the forms and enhancing their dramatic impact.
The background is dominated by a swirling blue-green atmosphere, which seems to both envelop and intensify the scene. This backdrop lacks detail, directing focus entirely onto the figures themselves. The ground beneath them appears dark and undefined, further emphasizing the sense of isolation and solemnity.
Subtly, there’s an undercurrent of vulnerability present in the exposed bodies and strained postures. While the gestures convey commitment, they also suggest a degree of anxiety or apprehension about the future. The lack of specific context allows for multiple interpretations; it could depict a moment of political alliance, a religious vow, or even a symbolic representation of shared struggle. The sketch’s unfinished quality contributes to this ambiguity, inviting viewers to project their own meanings onto the scene.