The Cogent Reason, plate four from Intimacies 1898

"The Cogent Reason," a woodcut by Félix Edouard Vallotton from his series "Intimacies" (1898), depicts a stark, black-and-white interior scene. The composition uses strong, geometric shapes and a stark contrast to create a sense of drama and mystery. The figures, rendered in silhouette, are caught in a moment of intimacy, suggesting a complex relationship. Vallotton's use of woodcut printing techniques, with its bold lines and dramatic shadows, accentuates the emotional tension in the scene. This artwork is a prime example of Vallotton's characteristic style, which blends realism and symbolism to explore the complexities of modern life.