img134 Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

Here we see a scene rendered in a detailed, cross-hatching style characteristic of Victorian illustration. The composition centers on a young girl and a large bear sharing a bed. The artist has placed the figures within a domestic interior, suggested by the draped curtains visible at the edge of the frame and the neatly made bedclothes.
The girl’s posture conveys a mixture of apprehension and curiosity. Her hands are clasped in her lap, and her gaze is directed towards the bear with an expression that suggests both surprise and perhaps a touch of fear. The bear dominates the scene physically; its size emphasizes its imposing presence within the intimate setting of the bedroom. It appears to be wearing a bonnet or some sort of head covering, which adds a layer of absurdity and anthropomorphism to the image. This detail softens the potential threat posed by the animal, hinting at a narrative where appearances are deceptive.
The use of light and shadow is crucial in establishing mood. The figures are illuminated against a darker background, drawing attention to their faces and expressions. The cross-hatching technique creates a sense of texture and depth, enhancing the realism of the scene while maintaining a certain level of formality.
Subtextually, this image likely alludes to themes of innocence encountering the unknown or the disruption of domestic tranquility. The bear’s presence in the bed suggests an intrusion into a safe space, potentially representing anxieties about the wildness that lies beneath the surface of civilization. The girls reaction invites speculation about her understanding of the situation and her ability to navigate this unexpected encounter. It is possible that the image represents a moment of revelation or transformation for the young girl, where she must confront something unfamiliar and potentially dangerous.