Artwork
Bildnis Professor Beuttner
Bildnis Professor Beuttner is an oil painting by the Art Nouveau artist Ferdinand Hodler. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.
About this work
Overview
Bildnis Professor Beuttner is a portrait painted in 1917 by Swiss artist Ferdinand Hodler, executed in oil paint. It is part of the Kunsthaus Zürich collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Professor Beuttner, likely a physician, given his attire, a white lab coat over a black vest and tie. His direct, confident gaze engages the viewer, conveying professionalism.
Technique & Style
While Hodler is known for developing a Symbolist approach termed 'parallelism,' this work leans towards realism. Characteristics of the painting, such as the use of oil paint and the treatment of light and color, align with realistic portraiture techniques.
History & Provenance
Created in 1917, the painting is now held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich. Hodler's career evolved from realism to a distinctive Symbolist style, though this piece reflects his earlier realistic tendencies.
Context
Bildnis Professor Beuttner can be contextualized within the late Art Nouveau movement, though its realistic approach somewhat diverges from the more ornate and flowing characteristics commonly associated with the style.
Legacy
As part of Hodler's oeuvre, the painting offers insight into his versatility. For deeper exploration of his technical innovations, such as chiaroscuro, impasto, and glazing, his broader body of work is recommended.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ferdinand Hodler (March 14, 1853 – May 19, 1918) was a Swiss painter. He is one of the best-known Swiss painters of the nineteenth century. His early works were portraits, landscapes, and genre paintings in a realistic…
- Self-Portrait with Hands in Pockets
Fritz H. Frølich
Taiteilijaystävä Eero Nelimarkka
Bildnis Frederik Robert Martin
L'Oncle Dominique
L'Homme au bonnet de coton (Antoine Dominique Sauveur Aubert, the Artist's Uncle)
Self-Portrait with Hat and Coat
Self-Portrait in Hat and Coat
Selbstbildnis im Mantel mit Skizzenblock
Portrait of Alfred Stepek