Polar Bear On The Ice Floe – Graphite Drawing With White Pencil Highlights – Early 20th Century

A rare and striking early 20th-century drawing depicting a polar bear dominating an ice floe in a silent, almost mystical atmosphere.

The work is executed in graphite with subtle highlights of white grease pencil, a particularly masterful technique that allows for the delicate rendering of the ice's volume, the water's reflections, and the polar light.

The treatment of modeling and contrasts lends the scene great depth and remarkable presence. The composition is powerful: the animal, isolated on its icy promontory, stands out against an Arctic landscape of delicate shades of gray.

The handling of mass and light demonstrates a sure hand and a true sense of atmosphere.

The work is signed in the lower left.

The subject, rare for the period, reflects the growing interest in the polar regions at the beginning of the 20th century, within the context of major Arctic expeditions, particularly those near Greenland.

This theme gives the piece an artistic and historical character.

Dimensions : 34,5cm x 46,5 cm.
Condition: Very good overall condition.