Portrait of Berthe Jacques 1894

Ferdinand Hodler painted 'Portrait of Berthe Jacques' in 1894 using oil on canvas. Notice the painting's composition, where the profile of Berthe Jacques dominates the space, set against a muted, pale backdrop. Hodler skillfully uses color and line to convey form. The dark tones defining her hair and clothing contrast with the lighter shades of her skin, creating a sense of depth and volume. The delicate brushstrokes capture the texture of her hair and the subtle contours of her face, giving a palpable presence. Hodler's approach challenges traditional portraiture, emphasizing the aesthetic qualities of the subject. The artwork destabilizes conventional notions of beauty, inviting us to consider the interplay of form and perception. It exemplifies how portraiture can transcend mere representation and become a site of artistic experimentation.