Artwork

Serious Question

Serious Question, by Philip de László, oil, 1897
Serious Question, by Philip de László, oil, 1897

Serious Question is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Philip de László. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the Hungarian National Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Serious Question is a 1897 oil painting by Philip de László, an Anglo-Hungarian artist known for his portraits of high society figures. The work is an interior scene, characteristic of the Impressionist style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a quiet moment between a couple in a domestic setting. The man, dressed in black, looks up as the woman, wearing a blue dress and white apron, reaches out to him. The scene conveys a sense of intimacy and contemplation.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, Serious Question exemplifies Impressionist techniques. The artist captures the warm, cozy atmosphere of the room, with attention to the play of light and the textures of the scene's elements, such as the pink bedcover and the objects on the table.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held by the Hungarian National Gallery, indicating its significance within the artist's oeuvre and its connection to Hungarian cultural heritage.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Philip de László

Artist

Philip de László

Philip Alexius László de Lombos (born Fülöp Laub; Hungarian: László Fülöp Elek; 30 April 1869 – 22 November 1937), known professionally as Philip de László, was an Anglo-Hungarian painter known particularly for his…