Ernest Biéler

Private collection, France

At the turn of the 20th century, both the Swiss national exhibitions and the increasing industrialization of the country stimulated the development of a national artistic style. Ernest Biéler, founder member of the School of Savièse, perceived the social transformations of the time as a threat to the cultural patrimony and defended a return to a simpler and more authentic way of life. The artist’s commitment is reflected in his work, which mostly focuses on rural subjects from Valais in a style inspired by early Netherlandish and Italian Renaissance techniques.

In this composition, Biéler portrays a winemaker, a prominent figure of the village. In contrast to other compositions by Biéler, the character's physiognomy is extremely detailed, while the background is limited to a discrete depiction of the vineyard. Wearing his fur hat and traditional costume, the winemaker is depicted with a remarkable elegance and meticulousness, attesting a keen sense of detail.

Through this portrait, Biéler succeeds in revealing the authenticity and traditions of rural life. Of exceptional quality and vibrant colors, this work appears for the first time at auction and reveals on the reverse an exquisite and decorative sketch of flowers.