The models’ rest Félix Édouard Vallotton (1865-1925)

Here we observe a scene staged within what appears to be an artists studio or a room designed to resemble one. The composition is dominated by two female figures and framed by a heavy curtain on the left and a large, ornate picture frame on the right.
The central figure reclines upon a bed covered with white linen, her body positioned diagonally across the canvas. She appears to be engaged in a gesture of gentle manipulation – perhaps adjusting or examining something held in her hand. Her gaze is directed downwards, suggesting introspection or focused attention rather than direct engagement with the viewer. To her left stands another woman, seated on the edge of the bed. This figure’s posture and expression convey a sense of quiet observation; she seems to be studying the reclining model.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing muted greens, creams, and flesh tones. The green wall provides a backdrop that emphasizes the pale skin of the figures. Light falls unevenly across the scene, creating areas of shadow and highlighting certain contours of the bodies. This contributes to a sense of intimacy and privacy.
Behind the two women, within the large frame, hangs another painting – a portrait of a man in formal attire alongside a landscape view. The inclusion of this framed artwork introduces layers of meaning. It could be interpreted as a commentary on artistic representation itself, or perhaps alluding to the male gaze and the traditional role of art patronage.
The overall impression is one of studied leisure and quiet contemplation. Theres an air of voyeurism inherent in the composition; the viewer is positioned as a silent observer of this private moment. The scene seems to explore themes of observation, representation, and the relationship between artist, model, and audience. The deliberate arrangement of figures and objects suggests a carefully constructed tableau rather than a spontaneous snapshot of life.