#37525 Ferdinand Hodler (1853-1918)

The painting presents a portrait study, focusing intently on the face and upper torso of a young woman. The composition is straightforward; the subject occupies nearly the entire frame, directing attention directly towards her gaze. Her head is turned slightly to the left, creating a subtle dynamism within the otherwise static arrangement.
Here we see an expressive use of color. Earth tones – ochres, browns, and siennas – dominate the palette, applied in broad, visible brushstrokes that contribute to a sense of immediacy and emotional intensity. The skin tone is rendered with a raw quality, marked by areas of both warmth and shadow, suggesting a complex inner life rather than a superficial representation. Dark hair cascades down her shoulders, its texture implied through thick application of paint. A simple garment, likely a blouse or shirt, is suggested in pale tones, providing a visual contrast to the darker hair and facial features.
The artist’s handling of form is notable for its deliberate simplification. Facial features are not meticulously detailed but rather defined by bold outlines and planes of color. This approach lends an almost mask-like quality to the subjects face, emphasizing her emotional state over precise physical likeness. The eyes, though relatively small, possess a directness that establishes a palpable connection with the viewer.
Subtleties in expression hint at a melancholic or introspective mood. There is a quiet sadness conveyed through the downturned mouth and the slightly furrowed brow. This isnt an image of exuberant joy; rather, it suggests a moment of quiet contemplation, perhaps tinged with vulnerability. The lack of background context further isolates the subject, intensifying her presence and inviting speculation about her inner world.
The signature in the lower right corner is executed in a similarly direct style, reinforcing the overall impression of an unmediated encounter with the subjects emotional landscape.