KOLLER VIEW 2/24

pre view. 02 7 5 On the bed After the turn of the 20 th century, the theme of the nude became increasingly important to Félix Vallotton. Young people were denied access to some of his exhibitions, as the curators apparently found the works too reveal- ing. Cool, objective, naturalistic depictions in large for- mats are typical of Vallotton ' s work, with sensuality and eroticism being either subliminally present or overlaid by psychoanalytical aspects. The colour tones of skin and fabric are subtle here. Félix Vallotton (1865–1925). Femme au lit. 1916. Oil on canvas. 81 × 100 cm. Estimate: CHF 80 000/120 000 6 Distant regard The solitary woman in Vallotton ' s ‘Torso’ appears to be immersed in a world of her own. The tension that the artist typically creates between showing and conceal- ing resonates here. The golden fabric draws the eye, but the sitter’s body is barely recognisable underneath. Vallotton ' s nudes have been the target of criticism, but are present in many collections, exhibitions and publi- cations. Félix Vallotton (1865–1925). Torse à l’étoffe jaune. 1913. Oil on canvas. 81 × 65.5 cm. Estimate: CHF 100 000/150 000 4 Flower magic Cuno Amiet makes the colourful blossoms rise from a vase like a small fireworks display. With the dark back- ground of the room and the strong blue of the table- cloth, he skilfully sets the scene for the bouquet. The flowers lying next to the vase give the impression that they have only just been picked from the garden. Bou- quets of flowers such as this one run through Amiet ' s entire work. He repeatedly draws on the rich variety of botany to experiment with light and colour. Cuno Amiet (1868–1961). Bouquet of flowers. 1945. Oil on canvas. 102 × 102 cm. Estimate: CHF 80 000/120 000 4 5 6 For further information Swiss Art Laura Koller & Cyril Koller lkoller@kollerauctions.com Online Catalogues www.kollerauctions.com