img012 Ferdinand Hodler (1853-1918)

The canvas presents a view down a long, straight path receding into the distance. The perspective is strongly emphasized by the converging lines of the road and the diminishing scale of the trees lining its edges. Here we see a landscape dominated by autumnal hues; the foliage on the trees is rendered in shades of orange, red, and brown, mirroring the color palette of the fallen leaves that thickly cover the path itself.
The artist has employed a distinctive style characterized by broad brushstrokes and an almost flattened sense of depth. The sky occupies a significant portion of the composition, displaying a gradient from yellow-orange near the horizon to pale blue above, suggesting either sunrise or sunset. This atmospheric effect contributes to the overall mood of tranquility and contemplation.
The trees themselves are stylized rather than realistically depicted; their forms are simplified and their branches appear almost skeletal against the sky. They function less as individual entities and more as visual markers defining the path’s trajectory. The horizon line is relatively low, further emphasizing the expansive quality of the sky and the sense of openness that pervades the scene.
Subtly, a feeling of melancholy or quiet resignation permeates the work. The abundance of fallen leaves suggests decay and the passage of time; the empty road implies absence and perhaps a journey undertaken alone. While visually appealing, the painting evokes a certain stillness, hinting at themes of transience and the cyclical nature of life. The deliberate lack of human presence reinforces this sense of solitude and invites introspection on the part of the viewer.