809. Félix Vallotton (1865-1925), Swiss,

Woman with Black Hat, 1908.

Oil on canvas, 81.3 x 65 cm.

The State Hermitage Museum, Moscow.

 

 

Vallotton’s Woman with Black Hat is undoubtedly a parody, combining the almost uncombinable: the striking turn of the half-clothed figure and a plain, dull face topped with an elaborate flowery hat. The painter’s eye seems dispassionate, yet something personal comes across in his attitude toward the woman. Annette Vaillant recollected that Vallotton’s Calvinist exterior concealed a strange Ingres-like sensuality. But the intimate effect of the portrait is extinguished by mockery which is noticeable even in the range of colours he uses. His palette is limited here and clearly imitates that of Salon journeyman painters.