Berlin girl,1906, SF Museum of fine arts Edvard Munch (1863-1944)

Here we observe a portrait study executed in sanguine chalk on paper. The subject is a young woman, depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly toward the viewer. Her gaze appears somewhat distant and introspective, lacking direct engagement.
The artist employed a vigorous hatching technique, using short, overlapping strokes to build up form and volume. This approach lends a sense of immediacy and energy to the work, suggesting it was created rapidly, perhaps as a preliminary study or a spontaneous observation. The hair is rendered with particularly dense and swirling lines, creating a voluminous effect that frames the face. It appears elaborately styled, possibly indicative of contemporary fashion trends.
The facial features are simplified, yet retain a recognizable likeness. Theres an emphasis on the eyes, which are shaded to suggest depth and emotion, though their expression remains ambiguous. The mouth is subtly rendered, contributing to the overall sense of quiet contemplation.
The limited tonal range – primarily variations within shades of reddish-brown – creates a unified visual field. This monochromatic palette directs attention toward the subject’s form and the artists handling of materials rather than coloristic effects. A pale background provides contrast, allowing the figure to emerge from the page.
Subtly, there is an impression of vulnerability conveyed through the direct gaze and simplified features. The lack of detailed background information isolates the sitter, emphasizing her presence as a psychological study rather than a formal portrait. One might interpret this work as capturing a fleeting moment of introspection or a sense of quiet melancholy within the subjects demeanor. The drawing’s unfinished quality contributes to an atmosphere of intimacy, suggesting a private encounter between artist and model.