#47300 Alexandre De Riquer e Ynglada (1856-1920)

The drawing presents a female figure in a dynamic pose, seemingly caught mid-motion. She is depicted with flowing hair and drapery that billows around her, suggesting movement and perhaps even ascension. The artist has rendered the form with delicate lines, emphasizing the curves of her body and the fluidity of the fabric. A sense of ethereal grace pervades the composition.
The figure’s gaze is directed upwards, towards a Latin inscription positioned above her: Vita sine litteris mortis est. This phrase translates to “Life without literature is death.” The placement of this text directly above the woman suggests a connection between intellectual pursuit and vitality. It implies that the womans upward glance signifies aspiration for knowledge or enlightenment, which is essential for a meaningful existence.
The background appears indistinct, with vague suggestions of foliage and architectural elements rendered in muted tones. This lack of detail focuses attention on the central figure and the inscription. The limited color palette – primarily shades of brown and beige – contributes to an overall feeling of antiquity or perhaps even fragility.
Subtly, there is a sense of melancholy present. While the woman appears to be reaching for something elevated, her posture also conveys a degree of vulnerability. The inscription itself carries a somber weight, implying that a life devoid of intellectual engagement is essentially lifeless. This combination creates an atmosphere of poignant reflection on the importance of learning and culture.