“The Lake Geneva from Lausanne,” by Ferdinand Hodler, created in 1912, is an evocative oil painting on canvas that exemplifies the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement. Measuring 66 x 87 cm, this landscape genre artwork is part of a private collection.
The artwork beautifully captures the serene and expansive view of Lake Geneva as seen from Lausanne. The composition features a dominant, tranquil sky that transitions seamlessly from a soft blue at the top to a lighter hue near the horizon, emphasizing the vastness of the sky. Below, the calm waters of Lake Geneva stretch across the middle of the scene, reflecting idyllic tranquility. The lower portion of the painting showcases rich, green landscapes dotted with soft, colorful patches of vegetation, suggesting a peaceful countryside that leads up to the lake. This lyrical portrayal renders a harmonious and contemplative mood, characteristic of Hodler’s meticulous observation of nature and his distinctive style in blending naturalism with decorative elegance.
