Setting New Standards by Jack Vettriano

Inscribed in the theatrical and provocative vein of contemporary genre painting, this large interior scene explores secret rituals and romantic submission. Entitled “Setting New Standards”, this fascinating creation produced by Jack Vettriano features a captive woman flanked by two accomplices. The artist orchestrates an atmosphere of intense mystery through dramatic candlelight.

In the center of the painting, a bare-shouldered young woman sits in an armchair, dressed in a bright red slip and black stockings, her wrists bound to the seat by dark ribbons. To her left, an imposing man in a white shirt, suspenders, and fedora hat leans toward her, extending his hand onto the backrest. To her right, a lady in a white blouse and dark skirt delicately rests her fingers on the chair frame. The scene is illuminated by three flickering flames from a tall candelabra set in the background before a burgundy wall. Surrounding half-light isolates the trio in dense chiaroscuro.

Jack Vettriano demonstrates virtuoso craftsmanship in controlling artificial light and rendering cast shadows. His command of oil painting gives red lingerie and model’s skin an exceptional plastic presence and aesthetic quality.