The artwork, titled “Navet,” is a portrait by Victor Hugo, a renowned figure associated with the Symbolism movement. This portrait exemplifies the Symbolist inclination towards representing the mystical and the abstract.
The artwork portrays a side profile of a face, outlined in a simplistic and almost skeletal manner. Rendered in monochromatic tones of brown and sepia, the lines defining the face are unembellished, lending a ghostly and ethereal quality to the depiction. The figure’s mouth appears open, evoking a sense of emotional intensity or expression. The background features darker, shadowy hues that enhance the stark contrast with the lightly sketched profile. At the bottom of the portrait, the word “Navet” is inscribed in a coarse, handwritten style, contributing to the raw and unrefined aesthetic of the piece. The overall composition resonates with the themes central to Symbolism, reflecting an exploration of innate human experiences and the intangible aspects of existence.
