The Seven Dwarfs Etienne Delessert

Here we observe a composition featuring two male figures positioned centrally against a backdrop of dense foliage and fruit. The men are depicted in profile, their faces rendered with exaggerated features – large noses, prominent eyes, and somewhat elongated mouths – suggesting a deliberate departure from naturalistic representation. Both wear dark blue hats adorned with feathers, and matching jackets, the lapels of which are decorated with small blue flowers. Each figure holds a cluster of white blossoms, their petals meticulously detailed.
The background is dominated by an intricate arrangement of leaves and branches, painted in shades of green and black, creating a sense of depth and enclosure. Scattered amongst the foliage are several orange fruits, adding splashes of color to the otherwise muted palette. The overall effect is one of stylized realism, where recognizable elements are presented with a degree of distortion and artistic license.
The arrangement of the figures suggests a connection or mirroring between them. Their similar attire and facial expressions imply shared characteristics or perhaps even represent aspects of a single personality. The flowers held by each man could symbolize innocence, purity, or perhaps a fragile beauty juxtaposed against their somewhat gruff appearances.
The dense foliage behind them might be interpreted as representing an environment that is both protective and restrictive – a place of refuge but also one that limits freedom. The fruits scattered throughout the background introduce a subtle element of abundance and potential reward, hinting at hidden treasures or opportunities within this enclosed space. The artist’s choice to depict these figures in profile prevents direct eye contact with the viewer, creating an air of mystery and inviting speculation about their identities and roles within the implied narrative.