Illustrationsudkast til H.C. Andersen, Snemanden 1866 - 1867

Lorenz Frølich created this sketch for H.C. Andersen’s “The Snowman” using graphite on paper. The composition is divided into two distinct registers, each presenting a different scene from the story. Linear forms, rendered in delicate graphite, define figures and landscapes with minimalist precision. The upper portion of the drawing captures a lively outdoor scene with elements such as trees and animals. These motifs are contrasted with the lower register, where forms appear fainter. Frølich's use of line is crucial here. It's not just descriptive but also creates a dynamic interplay between clarity and ambiguity. This interplay mirrors the story's themes of perception and illusion. The varying densities of the graphite suggest different emotional states and symbolic weights, inviting viewers to interpret the narrative through a semiotic lens. Consider how this formal arrangement—the stark lines against open space—invites an ongoing interpretation, reflecting the evolving nature of storytelling itself.