The artwork, titled “Left Border Woman,” was created by Ferdinand Hodler around the year 1913. It belongs to the Symbolism art movement and measures 40 by 19.5 centimeters. This piece falls under the genre of sketch and study.
The artwork features a roughly sketched figure of a woman. Rendered with minimalist yet expressive pencil strokes, the form of the woman is suggested rather than defined, capturing a sense of movement or grace. The posture of the figure, leaning slightly with one arm seemingly relaxed and the other reaching out, conveys a gentle fluidity. The sketch is devoid of detailed facial features, lending to its abstract and interpretative quality. Despite its simplicity, the artist’s skill in conveying form and emotion through sparse lines is evident, epitomizing the principles of the Symbolist movement where the suggestion of deeper meaning and emotional resonance is prioritized over realistic depiction.
