Hans Hoffmann – Red Squirrel National Gallery of Art (Washington)

The drawing presents a single animal subject: a squirrel rendered with meticulous detail and a focus on texture. The creature is positioned in a crouched posture, its forepaws clasped around what appears to be a morsel of food held close to its mouth. This gesture immediately conveys an impression of focused activity and perhaps even vulnerability – the squirrel seems entirely absorbed in its task.
The artist’s skill lies particularly in the rendering of fur. Each strand is individually depicted, creating a palpable sense of volume and softness. The tail, a prominent feature, fans out dramatically, contributing to the overall dynamism of the composition. Light plays across the surface of the animal, highlighting the texture of the fur and defining its form with subtle gradations of tone.
The background is plain, almost entirely devoid of detail, which serves to isolate the subject and direct the viewers attention squarely upon it. This simplicity also contributes to a sense of intimacy; the squirrel feels close enough to touch. The limited palette – primarily browns and tans – reinforces this naturalistic quality.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of an animal, the drawing might suggest themes related to diligence, resourcefulness, and the quiet rhythms of nature. Squirrels are often associated with hoarding and preparation for leaner times, so the act of feeding could be interpreted as a symbolic representation of these qualities. The solitary nature of the subject also lends itself to contemplation on individual existence within a larger ecosystem.
The inscription in the lower corner – “H.S. 1578” – provides a temporal anchor, situating the work within the late sixteenth century and hinting at a tradition of naturalistic observation prevalent during that period. The precision and detail evident in the drawing are characteristic of scientific illustration or studies intended to capture the essence of observed phenomena.