Legendary Princess; Princesse de légende Eugene Grasset (1841-1917)

The drawing presents two female figures in what appears to be a formal encounter. The composition is vertically oriented, with the subjects dominating the central space and a simplified landscape forming the backdrop. One figure, positioned on the left, wears a long, flowing gown of dark green, accented by lighter vertical lines that suggest intricate embroidery or detailing. A crown adorns her head, signifying royalty or elevated status. Her gaze is directed slightly downward, conveying an air of solemnity or perhaps contemplation. She holds a shallow, golden dish in her outstretched hands, the gesture ambiguous – it could be an offering, a presentation, or simply a symbolic prop.
The second figure, on the right, stands with her back partially turned to the viewer. Her hair is a vibrant shade of red-orange and she wears a gown of pale yellow and pink hues. A crescent moon appears affixed to her shoulder, lending a fantastical element to her depiction. The posture suggests a degree of formality or restraint, though the turned back introduces an element of mystery regarding her emotional state.
The background consists of a muted landscape rendered in washes of grey and brown, with a suggestion of water or sky. A few sparse details – perhaps trees or architectural elements – are discernible but remain indistinct. The limited palette contributes to a sense of dreamlike quality, reinforcing the legendary nature implied by the title.
Subtextually, the drawing seems to explore themes of power, ritual, and possibly transformation. The regal bearing of one figure contrasts with the otherworldly appearance of the other, hinting at a potential exchange or interaction between different realms – perhaps mortal and mythical. The golden dish held by the crowned woman could symbolize wealth, authority, or even sacrifice. The crescent moon on the second figure’s shoulder is a potent symbol often associated with femininity, intuition, and cycles of change.
The drawings style – characterized by simplified forms, bold outlines, and a limited color range – suggests an emphasis on symbolic representation over realistic depiction. It evokes a sense of narrative ambiguity, inviting speculation about the relationship between these two figures and the context of their encounter.