Félix Vallotton's 'Dinner, by Lamplight' Analyzed
Félix Vallotton (1865–1925), a Swiss-born painter who spent most of his life in Paris, created 'Dinner, by Lamplight' in 1899. The painting depicts a tense family dinner reflecting his uneasy entry into bourgeois life after marrying Gabrielle Rodrigues-Henrigues, a wealthy widow. Vallotton joined the Nabis in 1892 but left in 1899, the same year he married. The work uses stark contrasts of black and yellow to convey psychological discomfort, with Vallotton placing himself at the center as an intruder. His stepdaughter Madeleine's piercing gaze confronts the viewer. Despite his earlier critiques of high society, Vallotton sought financial stability through the marriage, which also provided connections to art dealers. The painting is held by the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
Key facts
- Félix Vallotton was born in 1865 and died in 1925.
- He moved from Switzerland to Paris to study art.
- Vallotton became a member of the Nabis in 1892.
- He left the Nabis in 1899.
- He married Gabrielle Rodrigues-Henrigues in 1899.
- 'Dinner, by Lamplight' was painted in 1899.
- The painting is in the collection of the Musée d'Orsay, Paris.
- Vallotton's marriage brought financial security and art dealer connections.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
Locations
- Switzerland
- Paris
- France
- Zurich