The Protest (1893)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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"The Protest," a striking work by the Swiss/French artist Félix Vallotton, captures a moment of intense social confrontation typical of the late 19th century. Known for his clear and precise cuts, Vallotton's print uses a highly contrasting black-and-white palette to dramatize the scene, emphasizing the chaos and energy of a public demonstration.The composition shows a dynamic crowd in motion, with figures portrayed in active, almost tumbling poses—some seem to be running while others fall or are pushed. The foreground features what appears to be policemen grappling with protesters, a common scene of struggle during political protests of that era.Vallotton's technique of woodcut printing adds to the effectiveness of the depiction, creating sharp, bold lines that define the forms with dramatic simplicity. This method enhances the tumultuous emotion of the scene, with an almost cinematic approach to capturing the motion and confusion of a crowd in upheaval.In "The Protest," Vallotton not only presents a visual report of social conflict but also imbues it with a sense of urgency and intensity, reflecting broader societal tensions and the fight for civil rights of his time.
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Félix Édouard Vallotton (December 28, 1865 – December 29, 1925) was a Swiss and French painter and printmaker associated with the group of artists known as Les Nabis. He was an important figure in the development of the modern woodcut. He painted portraits, landscapes, nudes, still lifes, and other subjects in an unemotional, realistic style.