Finished Wilhelm Kotarbiński (1849-1922)

The composition presents a stark scene within what appears to be a domestic interior. A figure lies prone on a bed, seemingly lifeless. The pallor of their skin and relaxed posture suggest death or a state approaching it. The arrangement is deliberate; the body occupies the central space, drawing immediate attention.
A window dominates the background, framing a view towards an exterior landscape where birds are in flight. This juxtaposition creates a visual contrast between the stillness within the room and the vitality of the world beyond. The light entering through the window illuminates the figure, highlighting their vulnerability while simultaneously casting shadows that deepen the sense of melancholy.
Several objects are scattered around the bed: a small table holding what looks like a carafe and glasses, a book lying open on a nearby surface, and a framed picture hanging on the wall. These items hint at interrupted routines and suggest a life abruptly halted. The presence of birds perched near the window is particularly striking; they could be interpreted as symbols of freedom or perhaps harbingers of ill omen, their proximity to the deceased adding an unsettling element to the scene.
The overall effect is one of quiet tragedy, evoking themes of mortality, loss, and the fragility of existence. The artists choice of muted tones and somber lighting reinforces this atmosphere, creating a powerful and emotionally resonant image.