#04200 Zao Wou-Ki

Here we see a figure rendered in a style characterized by simplified forms and expressive brushwork. The central subject appears to be a young girl, depicted with elongated limbs and a somewhat melancholic expression conveyed through large, almond-shaped eyes. Her hair falls in straight lines, contributing to the overall sense of austerity. She is clad in a dark dress that emphasizes her slender frame.
The setting is ambiguous, suggesting an outdoor space under a night sky dominated by a crescent moon. The background features rudimentary architectural elements – what appear to be a fence and a structure resembling a tower or gatehouse. These forms are not rendered with precise detail but rather as gestural marks, contributing to the dreamlike quality of the scene. A rounded shape, possibly representing a dome or archway, is positioned on the right side, its surface colored in a vibrant red that contrasts sharply with the surrounding palette.
The color scheme is dominated by yellows and blues, creating a sense of both warmth and coolness. The artist employed thick impasto, particularly noticeable in the yellow areas, which adds texture and visual interest to the composition. This technique also contributes to the emotional intensity of the work.
The overall impression is one of isolation and introspection. The girl’s posture – standing still with her hands clasped – suggests a state of quiet contemplation or perhaps even sadness. The starkness of the environment, combined with the simplified forms and expressive brushwork, evokes a sense of vulnerability and fragility. Theres an unsettling quality to the scene; the combination of childlike innocence and the somewhat oppressive atmosphere creates a feeling that something is not quite right. The composition feels deliberately unbalanced, further enhancing this uneasy mood.