February; FéVrier Eugene Grasset (1841-1917)

The drawing presents a woman engaged in pruning a young tree, positioned on a wooden ladder against a backdrop of bare branches and nascent foliage. The scene is framed by a decorative border, with the word FE-VRI-ER prominently displayed within a stylized sunburst shape hovering above her head.
Here we see a carefully constructed composition that blends natural elements with symbolic representation. The woman’s attire – a dark, tailored suit and high-buttoned boots – suggests a degree of formality and control, contrasting with the organic nature of her task. Her posture is deliberate; she appears focused on the precise act of cutting, suggesting an intention to shape or direct growth.
The surrounding landscape contributes significantly to the drawing’s meaning. The bare branches, characteristic of early spring, imply potential and renewal, while the emerging leaves hint at burgeoning life. The presence of snowdrops at the base of the tree reinforces this sense of awakening from dormancy. The stone wall and neatly trimmed hedges create a sense of order and containment within the natural setting.
The inclusion of FE-VRI-ER is crucial to understanding the work’s subtext. It directly identifies the month, but also functions as a symbolic marker – February often represents transition, a period between winters stillness and springs vibrancy. The sunburst shape surrounding the word suggests hope and optimism associated with this time of year.
The drawing seems to explore themes of cultivation, control, and the cyclical nature of life. It is not merely an observation of a gardener at work; it’s a visual metaphor for shaping potential, nurturing growth, and embracing the promise inherent in new beginnings. The artist has created a scene that is both visually appealing and laden with symbolic meaning, inviting contemplation on the relationship between humanity and the natural world.