Artwork

Autoportrait

Autoportrait, by Félix Vallotton, oil, 1905
Autoportrait, by Félix Vallotton, oil, 1905

Autoportrait is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Félix Vallotton. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Félix Vallotton's Autoportrait (1905) is an oil painting on canvas, currently part of the collection at the Kunsthaus Zürich.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the artist himself in a formal, somber pose, dressed in a dark suit, white shirt, and dark bow tie, with a mustache and short hair. His left hand rests on his hip, and his direct, serious gaze engages the viewer.

Technique & Style

Vallotton employs chiaroscuro to create depth and dimensionality, juxtaposing the subject's dark attire against a light, plain background, emphasizing volume and intensity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1905, the work is now held in the permanent collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich, Switzerland.

Context

Reflecting early 20th-century portraiture trends, Vallotton's self-portrait combines traditional formal elements with a modern, subdued emotional palette.

Legacy

As a self-portrait from a lesser-known period of Vallotton's oeuvre, Autoportrait offers insight into the artist's personal and artistic stance at the turn of the century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Félix Vallotton

Artist

Félix Vallotton

Félix Édouard Vallotton (French: ; December 28, 1865 – December 29, 1925) was a Swiss and French painter and printmaker associated with the group of artists known as Les Nabis.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Kunsthaus Zürich open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.