Who painted Monsieur Ursenbach?

Monsieur Ursenbach was painted by Félix Vallotton in 1893.

Where can I see Monsieur Ursenbach?

Monsieur Ursenbach is held by Kunsthaus Zürich.

What movement is Monsieur Ursenbach?

Monsieur Ursenbach is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Monsieur Ursenbach

Félix Vallotton , 1893

Monsieur Ursenbach is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Félix Vallotton. It dates from 1893 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Félix Vallotton’s 1893 oil portrait titled Monsieur Ursenbach presents an elderly gentleman seated in a modest interior. The figure occupies the foreground, turned slightly to the left, his hands resting calmly on his lap. A warm, brown backdrop and a wooden dresser with a lamp complete the setting, lending the work a restrained, contemplative tone.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, identified as Monsieur Ursenbach, is depicted in formal black attire with a white shirt and dark bow tie, his thinning gray hair suggesting advanced age. The composition’s quiet stillness and subdued palette emphasize dignity and introspection, inviting viewers to consider the personal presence and social standing of the individual within a private domestic space.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on canvas, Vallotton employs a smooth, controlled brushwork that renders the textures of fabric, wood, and skin with clarity. The limited color scheme, dominated by dark tones and warm browns, creates a harmonious balance, while the subtle modeling of light on the figure’s face and hands demonstrates the artist’s skill in rendering volume without overt dramatization.

History & Provenance

Created in 1893, the portrait entered the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s commitment to representing Swiss artists of the late nineteenth century, and the work continues to serve as a documented example of Vallotton’s portraiture during his early mature period.

Portrait of W.E.H. Lecky (1838-1903), Historian, John Lavery

Artist & collection

Artist

Félix Vallotton

Félix Édouard Vallotton (French: ; December 28, 1865 – December 29, 1925) was a Swiss and French painter and printmaker associated with the group of artists known as Les Nabis.