Paul Vallotton, the Artist’s Brother Félix Édouard Vallotton (1865-1925)

The portrait presents a young man positioned centrally against a dark, indistinct background. He is depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly toward the viewer with a solemn expression. The artist has rendered him in formal attire: a dark suit jacket over a crisp white shirt and tie. A carefully groomed mustache adorns his upper lip, contributing to an overall impression of restrained elegance and seriousness.
The lighting is focused primarily on the man’s face and hands, leaving the surrounding areas shrouded in shadow. This concentrated illumination accentuates the texture of his skin and highlights the details of his facial features – a slightly furrowed brow, a firm set to his mouth. The artist has paid particular attention to rendering the play of light across his forehead and cheekbones, suggesting a subtle modeling that lends depth and volume to his face.
In his right hand, he holds a lit cigarette, the ember glowing faintly against the darkness. This detail introduces an element of complexity into the otherwise formal presentation. The presence of the cigarette might be interpreted as a sign of modernity or perhaps a hint of underlying tension or melancholy. It disrupts the expected decorum of a traditional portrait and adds a layer of psychological intrigue.
The subdued color palette, dominated by dark tones, reinforces the somber mood. The limited range of hues contributes to a sense of introspection and quiet contemplation. The background’s lack of detail further directs attention toward the subject, isolating him within the frame and emphasizing his individuality.
Overall, the painting conveys an atmosphere of restrained formality combined with subtle undercurrents of psychological depth. It is not merely a representation of a person but rather an exploration of character and mood through careful observation and deliberate artistic choices.