Artwork

Portrait of Ambroise Vollard

Portrait of Ambroise Vollard, by Pierre Bonnard, oil, 1904
Portrait of Ambroise Vollard, by Pierre Bonnard, oil, 1904

Portrait of Ambroise Vollard is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Pierre Bonnard. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the Foundation E.G. Bührle Collection.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Ambroise Vollard is an oil painting by Pierre Bonnard, executed in 1904. The work portrays the eponymous subject, Ambroise Vollard, in a seated pose, set against a backdrop featuring a small landscape painting on a light-colored wall.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures Ambroise Vollard, likely depicting him in a contemplative or introspective state, given his folded hands and serious, somewhat fatigued expression. A subtle red mark on his cheek adds a touch of personal detail.

Technique & Style

Bonnard employed loose brushstrokes, particularly evident in the background, imparting a sense of spontaneity. The use of thick, visible paint strokes, especially on Vollard's suit, creates a textured, impasto effect, highlighting the physicality of the paint.

History & Provenance

Created in 1904, the portrait is currently part of the collection at the Kunsthaus Zürich.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pierre Bonnard

Artist

Pierre Bonnard

Pierre Bonnard was a French painter, illustrator and printmaker, known especially for the stylized decorative qualities of his paintings and his bold use of color.