Artwork

Playing in the Sun (Jeux au soleil)

Playing in the Sun (Jeux au soleil), by Félix Vallotton, ink, 1893
Playing in the Sun (Jeux au soleil), by Félix Vallotton, ink, 1893

Playing in the Sun (Jeux au soleil) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Félix Vallotton. It dates from 1893 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Playing in the Sun (Jeux au soleil) is a 1893 woodcut by Félix Vallotton, a Swiss-French artist associated with the Les Nabis group. The print is executed in black on brown wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts two figures in the water, holding a circular object above their heads. The scene is set against a backdrop of dark water and a radiant sun, emphasizing the interaction between the figures and their surroundings.

Technique & Style

Vallotton employed woodcut techniques to create the image, characterized by bold black lines and a simple, elegant composition. This approach reflects his evolving aesthetic during his time with Les Nabis, marked by a shift towards simplified forms.

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: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.