#19321 Martin Schongauer

The drawing presents a female figure in profile, facing left, holding aloft a vessel containing a flame. She is depicted with considerable detail and precision within a vertical format. The artist has rendered her hair as flowing, abundant curls that cascade down her back and shoulders, partially obscuring the drapery of her gown. A laurel wreath adorns her head, suggesting an association with victory or honor.
The garment itself appears to be composed of several layers, creating folds and shadows that contribute to a sense of volume and texture. The vessel she holds is relatively simple in design, its form clearly delineated by the artist’s skillful use of line. The flame emanating from it is rendered with dynamic, swirling lines, suggesting movement and energy.
At the base of the figure are three small symbols – a stylized ‘M’, a serpentine creature, and another symbol resembling an inverted ‘S’. These elements appear to be placed deliberately, though their precise meaning remains ambiguous without further contextual information. They could function as allegorical markers or serve as signatures/initials related to the work’s creation.
The overall impression is one of solemnity and grace. The figures posture – upright and dignified – conveys a sense of purpose and authority. The flame she carries might symbolize enlightenment, knowledge, or divine inspiration. The drawing’s monochromatic palette emphasizes the clarity of form and line, directing attention to the details of the figure and her symbolic attributes. The artist’s meticulous rendering suggests an intention to convey not just a likeness but also a deeper meaning – a narrative that is hinted at rather than explicitly stated.