Artwork

Der Tisch

Der Tisch, by Sigismund Righini, unspecified, 1908
Der Tisch, by Sigismund Righini, unspecified, 1908

Der Tisch is an unspecified painting by the Art Nouveau artist Sigismund Righini. It dates from 1908 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1908, Der Tisch is a still‑life oil painting by Swiss artist Sigismund Righini. The work belongs to the Kunsthaus Zürich’s collection and exemplifies the decorative sensibility of the early twentieth‑century Art Nouveau movement.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a modest tabletop arrangement: a white‑covered table holds a blue‑rimmed bowl brimming with yellow pears, a solitary pear on a nearby plate, two wine glasses, and a bottle of yellow liquid. Set against a muted blue wall, the objects are organized to convey a quiet equilibrium, inviting contemplation of everyday abundance.

Technique & Style

Righini employs a restrained palette of blues and yellows, allowing the colors to interact with subtle warmth. The handling of light and shadow recalls chiaroscuro, giving volume to the fruit and glassware while maintaining the sinuous, organic lines typical of Art Nouveau decoration.

History & Provenance

Born in Stuttgart and later active in Zürich, Righini was a prominent figure in Swiss artistic circles, serving in leadership roles within local art societies. Der Tisch entered the Kunsthaus Zürich’s holdings as part of the museum’s early twentieth‑century acquisitions, reflecting the institution’s commitment to Swiss modernism.

Context

At the time of its creation, Swiss art was engaging with broader European currents, particularly the fluid forms and ornamental motifs of Art Nouveau. Righini’s still life aligns with this trend, integrating decorative surface treatment with a focus on the intimate, domestic scene.

Still Life with a Dessert
Still Life with a Dessert, Paul Cézanne

Artist & collection

Portrait of Sigismund Righini

Artist

Sigismund Righini

Carlo Pietro Sigismund Righini (4 January 1870, Stuttgart - 24 October 1937, Zürich) was a Swiss painter and art association executive.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Kunsthaus Zürich open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Der Tisch?

Der Tisch was painted by Sigismund Righini in 1908.

Where can I see Der Tisch?

Der Tisch is held by Kunsthaus Zürich.

What movement is Der Tisch?

Der Tisch is associated with Art Nouveau.