Yellow daisies and various flowers Félix Édouard Vallotton (1865-1925)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a ceramic pitcher brimming with yellow daisies and other flowering plants. The flowers spill slightly over the rim, their stems cascading down towards a table covered in a vibrant green cloth patterned with floral motifs that echo those within the vase. A few scattered blooms rest on the tabletop surface itself.
The color palette is dominated by yellows and greens, punctuated by the reds and purples of the mixed blossoms. The background is rendered in muted grays and pale lilac tones, which serve to push the foreground forward and emphasize the luminosity of the floral arrangement. Light appears to originate from the left side of the canvas, illuminating the flowers and casting subtle shadows that define their form.
The artist’s brushwork seems loose and expressive, particularly evident in the rendering of the foliage. This technique lends a sense of spontaneity and vitality to the scene. The texture of the ceramic pitcher is suggested through short, deliberate strokes, while the floral patterns on the tablecloth are more broadly applied, creating a decorative effect.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of flowers, theres an underlying feeling of domesticity and quiet contentment. The choice of daisies – often associated with innocence and simplicity – alongside the patterned cloth evokes a sense of everyday beauty found within the home. The arrangement feels less like a formal display and more like a casual gathering of blooms, suggesting a personal connection to nature and a celebration of simple pleasures. The overall effect is one of gentle warmth and understated elegance.