#47295 Alexandre De Riquer e Ynglada (1856-1920)

The composition presents a solitary female figure dominating the vertical format. She is depicted in profile, her head bowed and obscured by what appears to be a heavy burden slung over her shoulder. Her hair, long and flowing, cascades down her back, blending with the surrounding foliage. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and muted yellows – creating an atmosphere of melancholy and age.
The figure’s posture conveys profound sorrow or exhaustion. She seems to be shielding herself from something unseen, a gesture that suggests vulnerability and distress. The weight on her shoulders appears substantial, both physically and metaphorically; it could represent grief, responsibility, or the accumulated burdens of time.
A swarm of dark birds encircles the figure’s lower half, their presence adding an element of foreboding and perhaps even menace. They seem to be drawn to her sorrow, or possibly contributing to it. The artist has rendered them with sharp detail, emphasizing their ominous quality against the softer rendering of the woman.
The background is indistinct, a hazy landscape that contributes to the overall sense of isolation. A word – Ivern – is inscribed in capital letters near the top edge of the composition, its meaning unclear without further context but potentially serving as a symbolic marker or place name. The signature at the bottom left corner indicates the artists presence and authorship.
The painting evokes themes of loss, aging, and the weight of existence. It suggests a narrative of hardship and resilience, where the woman’s stoic posture implies an enduring spirit despite her evident suffering. The interplay between light and shadow further enhances the emotional depth, highlighting both the figures vulnerability and her quiet strength.