A Mermaid, two studies Francois Boucher (1703-1770)

The drawing presents a dynamic scene involving figures that appear to be both human and aquatic in nature. Here we see two distinct compositions layered upon one another, suggesting preliminary studies for a larger work. The overall tone is one of struggle or interaction, conveyed through the contorted poses and gestures of the subjects.
In the foreground, a figure with a distinctly humanoid torso and what appears to be a fish-like lower body dominates the composition. This creature’s posture suggests an attempt to restrain another individual. Its left arm wraps around the other figures head, while its right hand clutches at their shoulder. The musculature is rendered with considerable detail, emphasizing strength and exertion. The face of this being is partially obscured but conveys a sense of intensity or perhaps even desperation.
Behind this central interaction, a second figure emerges from what seems to be swirling water or foam. This individual’s arm is extended outwards, as if reaching for something beyond the frame, or possibly attempting to break free from the grasp of the first creature. The body language suggests a desire for escape or resistance. The rendering here is less detailed than that of the foreground figure, indicating perhaps an earlier stage in the compositional development.
The artist employed a loose and expressive charcoal technique, utilizing varied pressure and shading to define form and suggest movement. The lack of definitive outlines contributes to the sense of fluidity and dynamism within the scene. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates depth and volume, particularly noticeable in the rendering of musculature.
Subtly, the drawing hints at themes of captivity and liberation. The interaction between the figures suggests a power dynamic – one figure exerting control over another. The watery environment adds an element of mystery and otherworldliness, evoking associations with mythology and folklore. It is possible to interpret this as a depiction of a mythological encounter, perhaps involving a sea creature and a human being. The overlapping compositions suggest that the artist was exploring different approaches to depicting this interaction, experimenting with variations in pose and gesture before settling on a final design.