#37542 Ferdinand Hodler (1853-1918)

The painting presents a landscape dominated by a rushing stream and rocky terrain. The artist has rendered the scene with a distinct lack of traditional perspective; instead, forms are flattened and presented in a manner that emphasizes their geometric qualities. A strong horizontal emphasis is established by the line of hills receding into the background, which contrasts with the dynamic movement suggested by the water’s flow.
The color palette is earthy and warm, primarily composed of ochres, browns, oranges, and yellows, punctuated by patches of blue in the sky and reflected in the waters surface. The application of paint appears thick and textured, contributing to a sense of physicality and immediacy. Brushstrokes are visible and expressive, adding to the overall impression of energetic rendering.
The stream itself is not depicted realistically; rather, it’s suggested through fragmented shapes and swirling patterns of white and light brown that convey movement without precise detail. The rocks lining the banks are similarly abstracted into angular forms, their surfaces rendered with a rough, almost sculptural quality.
Theres an absence of human presence or any indication of civilization within this scene. This contributes to a feeling of isolation and emphasizes the raw power of nature. The sky, though present, is treated as another element in the composition – a field of broken color rather than a realistic depiction of atmosphere.
Subtly, one might interpret the painting as an exploration of the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The abstracted forms suggest a detachment from representational accuracy, perhaps indicating a desire to convey not just what is seen but also the emotional impact of encountering such a landscape. The forceful rendering and limited color range could be read as symbolic of resilience or even struggle within this environment. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on the inherent beauty and untamed character of nature.