Cipa Godebsky Félix Édouard Vallotton (1865-1925)

The portrait presents a man depicted from the chest upwards against a muted grey-green background. He is positioned centrally within the frame, facing forward with a direct gaze towards the viewer. The artist employed a limited palette dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and greys – which contribute to a sense of somberness and restraint.
The man’s attire consists of a heavy, brown coat fastened at the neck with what appears to be a red detail or emblem. This element introduces a small area of color contrast against the otherwise muted hues. His hair is dark, styled in a distinctive manner that emphasizes its volume and rigidity; it rises sharply from his forehead, creating an almost architectural quality. A neatly trimmed beard further defines his facial features.
The brushwork appears loose and expressive, with visible strokes contributing to a textured surface. The artist has not striven for photorealistic detail; instead, the focus seems to be on capturing a sense of character and presence. There is a certain solidity in the rendering of the face, suggesting an individual of determination or perhaps even severity.
Subtleties within the portrait suggest layers of meaning beyond a simple likeness. The directness of his gaze establishes a connection with the viewer, inviting scrutiny while simultaneously maintaining a degree of distance. The formal styling of his hair and beard, combined with the heavy coat, might imply adherence to a particular ideology or social standing. The red detail on the coat could be interpreted as symbolic – perhaps representing affiliation or allegiance. Overall, the painting conveys an impression of quiet authority and understated dignity, while hinting at complexities beneath the surface.