Hamlet mit seiner Mutter Gertrude und dem hinter einem Vorhang getöteten Polonius, im Hintergrund der Geist des Vaters, seine Forderung nach Rache erneuernd

Victor Müller made this drawing depicting a scene from Hamlet, using charcoal and chalk, materials that lend themselves to quick, expressive sketches. The inherent qualities of charcoal—its softness and ability to create a range of tones—allow Müller to convey the dramatic tension of the scene, as Hamlet confronts his mother. Chalk provides highlights and adds volume to figures like Hamlet and Gertrude. The stark contrast between light and shadow heightens the emotional intensity, underscoring the turmoil of the moment. The choice of these materials reflects a connection to traditional methods of academic drawing, emphasizing skill and precision in capturing form and emotion. But Müller also uses these materials in a loose, gestural manner. This combination suggests a tension between classical ideals and a more modern, expressive approach, reflecting the shifting cultural landscape of the 19th century.