Portrait of the Artist-s Brother with Hat Félix Édouard Vallotton (1865-1925)

The portrait presents a man in a formal dark suit, captured from the chest upwards. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a contemplative expression. A neatly trimmed mustache adorns his upper lip, and his hair is styled back, revealing a high forehead. The sitter’s hand rests thoughtfully on his chin, leaning against what appears to be a chair or piece of furniture.
The color palette is dominated by somber tones – deep blues and blacks for the suit, contrasted with the lighter hues of the shirt collar and cuffs. A subtle play of light and shadow defines the contours of his face and clothing, lending depth and volume to the figure. The background is indistinct, a muted grey-blue that allows the subject to remain the focal point.
The chair he leans against displays an ornamental pattern along its back, hinting at a certain level of refinement and taste. A signature appears in script near the bottom edge, adding a layer of authorship to the scene. The inscription Paris 1888 is visible in the upper left corner, establishing a temporal and geographical context for the work.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of an individual, the painting conveys a sense of introspection and quiet dignity. The pose suggests a man engaged in deep thought or perhaps burdened by some unspoken concern. The formality of his attire implies social standing and adherence to convention. There is a restrained elegance present, suggesting a deliberate attempt at portraying character rather than mere likeness. The overall impression is one of understated sophistication and psychological complexity.