Still life with ham and tomatoes Félix Édouard Vallotton (1865-1925)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a cured ham displayed on a decorative ceramic plate. The plate itself is adorned with a blue and white pattern, punctuated by scattered floral motifs in shades of red and yellow. Three ripe tomatoes are positioned in the foreground, their vibrant red hue contrasting against the muted tones of the wooden surface upon which everything rests. A loosely draped cloth, patterned with red stripes on a white background, adds texture and softens the edges of the arrangement.
The artist’s handling of light is notable; it illuminates the hams surface, highlighting its contours and suggesting a moist sheen. The tomatoes are rendered with careful attention to their form, capturing the subtle variations in color and the play of light on their skin. The cloth appears almost tangible due to the skillful depiction of folds and shadows.
Beyond the straightforward representation of everyday objects, the painting evokes a sense of abundance and domesticity. The ham, traditionally associated with feasts and celebrations, suggests prosperity and sustenance. The tomatoes, symbols of vitality and summer, contribute to this feeling of richness. The patterned plate introduces an element of refinement, hinting at a cultivated taste and appreciation for beauty in the commonplace.
The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation; the arrangement feels both familiar and carefully considered. It’s possible to interpret the work as a meditation on the transient nature of material possessions – the ham, while representing plenty, will inevitably decay – or simply as an exercise in capturing the visual qualities of ordinary objects with meticulous detail. The subdued palette and straightforward composition lend themselves to a sense of realism tempered by a subtle emotional resonance.