François Barraud (1899–1934) was a Swiss painter renowned for his meticulous realism and still-life compositions. Born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, he grew up in a family of craftsmen, which influenced his interest in the arts early on. Alongside his three brothers, who also pursued artistic careers, François developed his talent in painting and sculpture. He attended the École d'Art de La Chaux-de-Fonds, where he was introduced to classical training, and honed his skill in capturing the human form and intricate details.
Barraud's style blended influences of the Old Masters with elements of modern realism. He often depicted still-life arrangements, portraits, and self-portraits, characterized by precision, delicate lighting, and a harmonious color palette. His works feature an almost photographic clarity, highlighting his deep observation of textures, surfaces, and reflections. Barraud was particularly adept at portraying glass, wood, and fabric, with a keen focus on the interplay between light and shadow.
Barraud's life was marked by struggles with illness and financial instability, which were exacerbated by the economic hardships of the interwar period. Despite these challenges, he continued to produce highly detailed and contemplative pieces that drew the admiration of collectors and critics alike.
In the last few years of his life, François and his wife Marie served as frequent subjects of his portraits, which often explore themes of introspection and melancholy. His self-portraits, in particular, reveal an intense gaze and convey a sense of personal reflection and fragility. Barraud's promising career was cut short when he died at the age of 34 from tuberculosis. Although his life was brief, his legacy endures through his finely crafted paintings, which continue to captivate viewers with their serene and meticulous beauty.