#37538 Ferdinand Hodler (1853-1918)

The composition presents a young girl standing before a wooden door, her posture suggesting a hesitant or pleading gesture. She holds what appears to be a doll cradled in her arms, positioned close to her chest as if it were a cherished possession. The child is dressed in simple attire – a white blouse, a long skirt, and a vibrant red scarf draped around her shoulders, the colors contrasting with the muted tones of the door. A small hat adorns her head.
The artist’s brushwork is loose and expressive, particularly evident in the rendering of the wooden panels of the door, which appear textured and aged. The light source seems to originate from behind the viewer, casting a warm glow on the girls face and highlighting the folds of her clothing. This lighting creates a sense of intimacy and draws attention to her figure against the dark background.
The door itself dominates much of the canvas, acting as both a physical barrier and a symbolic one. It evokes notions of confinement, transition, or perhaps an invitation. The girl’s raised hand could signify a request for entry, a call for help, or simply a playful greeting. Her gaze is directed upwards and slightly to the left, suggesting she is addressing someone beyond the viewers perspective.
The presence of the doll introduces themes of childhood innocence, imagination, and perhaps longing for companionship. The overall impression conveyed is one of quiet vulnerability and anticipation, leaving room for interpretation regarding the girl’s circumstances and her relationship with those potentially on the other side of the door. The date 1879 inscribed in the lower left corner provides a temporal context to the scene, hinting at social conditions and artistic conventions prevalent during that period.