Preview AR preview Switch to Print Switch to Digital Image Send
Details Guide Add to favorites Download Similars X-Ray Diaporama Stats

Dining Recess

Patrick Caulfield’s ‘Dining Recess,’ a stark black-and-white masterpiece from 1972, presents an eerie, minimalist dining scene with a dominant globe lamp and molded tulip chairs, capturing the loneliness of observation within British Pop Art.

Patrick Caulfield (1936-2005) was a leading British Pop artist known for his figurative still lifes, interiors & bold use of flat color and black outlines. A Turner Prize nominee, his work is held in prominent collections like Saatchi & Bowie's.

The artwork displayed on this page is protected by copyright law, which means we cannot legally create or sell an identical reproduction. This protection is enforced under international agreements such as the Berne Convention and by national laws, including those outlined by the U.S. Copyright Law - Title 17.

As a respectful and legal alternative, we offer custom, hand-painted artworks inspired by the original. Our skilled and professional artists carefully study the original's style, mood, and artistic essence to create a new, unique piece that evokes the same feeling - while remaining an original creation in its own right.

This method fully complies with copyright regulations because it does not involve copying or duplicating the protected artwork. Instead, it is a creative reinterpretation - a new painting that is influenced by the original but not identical to it.

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

Hand-painted oil on canvas in your size and frame, made to order by our artists. ( Switch to Print Switch to Digital Image)

Corner sample of the P118B picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118B $10
Corner sample of the P118H picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118H $10
Corner sample of the P118W picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118W $10
Corner sample of the P438Z picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P438Z $10
Corner sample of the P508JH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P508JH $12
Corner sample of the P508YH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P508YH $12
Corner sample of the P805H picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P805H $10
Corner sample of the P805Z picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P805Z $10
Corner sample of the P919BZ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919BZ $10
Corner sample of the P919G picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919G $10
Corner sample of the P919XJ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919XJ $10
Corner sample of the P959ZH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P959ZH $10
Corner sample of the P968JZ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 6 cm wide and 4 cm thick
P968JZ $12
Corner sample of the W106C picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W106C $8
Corner sample of the W218G picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218G $10
Corner sample of the W218JH picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218JH $8
Corner sample of the W218Y picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218Y $10
Corner sample of the W307PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W307PJ $10
Corner sample of the W316G picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316G $10
Corner sample of the W316PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316PJ $8
Corner sample of the W316Y picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316Y $10
Corner sample of the W398PJ picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W398PJ $8
Corner sample of the W4111J picture frame: solid wood, 6.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
W4111J $10
Corner sample of the W500HY picture frame: solid wood, 7 cm wide and 5 cm thick
W500HY $15
Corner sample of the W500JH picture frame: solid wood, 7 cm wide and 5 cm thick
W500JH $15
Corner sample of the W692G picture frame: solid wood, 8 cm wide and 4 cm thick
W692G $12
Corner sample of the W849H picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W849H $8
Corner sample of the W940BG picture frame: solid wood, 7.5 cm wide and 4.5 cm thick
W940BG $15
Corner sample of the W953PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
W953PJ $8

Standard
custom
CM
INCH

Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions.

width
height

You may enter your own dimensions to fit a specific frame or space. If your selected size does not match the original image's proportions, we will either crop the artwork or extend the painting with additional hand-painted elements. A digital mockup will be sent for your approval before production begins.
Please note that the on-screen preview does not reflect the actual cropping or extension. Only the mockup will accurately show the final composition.
While custom sizes are available, we recommend selecting a dimension from the predefined list to preserve the original proportions.

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.
After order, WahooArt.com team will email client for instructions and provide a mockup preview

Worldwide Delivery () in 3/4 weeks instead of standard 5 weeks. (13 October). No compromise on quality.

Free Worldwide Express Shipping
High-Quality Linen Canvas
Full Shipping Insurance
Customs Tax Refund Guarantee
True Color Matching Guarantee
100-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Bulk Discount Offer

Total Price

$ 272

Dining Recess

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Size

-

Total Price

$ 272

Quick Facts

  • Influences:
    • Magritte
    • Duchamp
  • Year: 1972
  • Medium: Painting
  • Subject or theme: Dining, Loneliness
  • Title: Dining Recess

Patrick Caulfield’s ‘Dining Recess’: A Study in Isolation and Design

Patrick Caulfield's “Dining Recess,” completed in 1972, is more than just a depiction of a dining room; it’s a meticulously crafted meditation on loneliness, observation, and the subtle power of design. Measuring an imposing 274 x 213 cm, this large-scale work immediately commands attention with its stark simplicity – a brilliant white globe lamp dominating the center, juxtaposed against the muted grey tones of the interior space. This deliberate contrast isn’t merely aesthetic; it actively heightens the sense of mystery and unease that permeates the entire composition.

  • The Iconography of Absence: Caulfield famously stated his intention to present “something that’s either happened or is about to happen,” creating a palpable feeling of anticipation and, crucially, isolation. The absence of human figures amplifies this effect, forcing the viewer into an uncomfortable role as detached observer.
  • A Dialogue with Design History: The inclusion of Eero Saarinen's iconic ‘tulip’ chairs – frequently featured in design books of the era – isn’t accidental. Caulfield was deeply interested in the social implications of interior design, using these familiar objects to ground the scene in a specific historical context while simultaneously questioning their function and purpose within this unsettling tableau.
  • Technique and Impact: Caulfield's signature style—characterized by flat areas of color and bold black outlines—is employed with masterful precision here. The meticulous rendering of the lamp, the chairs, and even the wall texture creates a deceptively realistic effect, further emphasizing the strangeness of the scene.

Exploring the Roots of Minimalism

Caulfield’s artistic journey was profoundly shaped by his early exposure to Surrealism and Dada movements, particularly the work of René Magritte and Marcel Duchamp. This influence is evident in “Dining Recess” through its conceptual approach – a deliberate rejection of traditional representational art in favor of exploring ideas and emotions through simplified forms and carefully considered compositions. The minimalist aesthetic, so central to Caulfield’s work, was a direct response to the burgeoning Pop Art movement of the 1960s, which sought to challenge established artistic conventions by embracing popular culture imagery.

Symbolism and Emotional Resonance

The dominant image of the lamp within “Dining Recess” is particularly evocative. It functions as a visual metaphor for illumination – both literal and metaphorical – yet its inability to dispel the gloom of the room suggests a deeper, perhaps unresolvable, sense of darkness. The empty dining table itself becomes a symbol of missed connections, lost opportunities, or simply the quiet contemplation of solitude. The clock on the wall adds another layer of complexity, hinting at the passage of time and the inevitability of change – themes frequently explored in Caulfield’s work.

Historical Context and Significance

Created in 1972, “Dining Recess” reflects a pivotal moment in British art history. Caulfield was part of a generation of artists who were pushing the boundaries of traditional painting while simultaneously engaging with the social and cultural shifts of the time. His work is now recognized as a key example of minimalist Pop Art, demonstrating a unique ability to combine conceptual rigor with striking visual impact. This piece represents a significant contribution to Caulfield’s oeuvre and offers a compelling insight into his artistic vision.

Questions & Answers

What placement suits the format of "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield?

Format (portrait) and recommended space (dining room) are the two placement facts recorded for "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield.

What are the format and size of "Dining Recess"?

The format of "Dining Recess" is portrait, and the original measures 274 x 213 cm. Both are useful when planning a reproduction.

What is the emotional tone of "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield?

"Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield conveys a lonely emotional tone.

Can I order an oil reproduction of "Dining Recess"?

You can order a hand-painted reproduction of "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield directly on this page: a hand-painted oil reproduction on linen canvas, made to order.

Can I see "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield under different lights?

The X-Ray page of "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield is an interactive viewer that lets you slide through eleven optical layers of the artwork's image, including an X-ray style view.

What technique and style characterize "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield?

"Dining Recess" is made in acrylic on canvas, in the Pop Art style.

In which year and which movement was "Dining Recess" made?

"Dining Recess" was made in 1972, within the Pop Art movement.

What is the art-historical place of "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield?

The art-historical classification of "Dining Recess" by Patrick Caulfield is Pop Art, in the Modern period.


Artist Biography

Patrick Caulfield: The Minimalist Maestro of Bold Color

Patrick Joseph Caulfield (1936-2005) stands as a pivotal figure in British Pop Art, recognized for his distinctive aesthetic – deceptively simple compositions dominated by flat areas of color and punctuated by stark black outlines. Born in Acton, London, Caulfield’s artistic journey began with an early fascination for graphic design and sculpture, shaping the trajectory of his groundbreaking visual language. He honed his skills at Chelsea School of Art before graduating from Wimbledon College of Arts in 1960, establishing himself as a freelance illustrator and designer.
  • Early Influences: Caulfield’s formative years were marked by exposure to Surrealism and Dada movements, particularly the work of René Magritte and Marcel Duchamp, which instilled in him a rebellious spirit and an appreciation for conceptual art.
  • The Rise of Pop Art: Embracing the burgeoning Pop Art movement in the mid-1960s, Caulfield swiftly adopted its core principles – referencing popular culture and utilizing bold visual elements to convey meaning. His iconic ‘Cross’ painting exemplifies this approach, distilling complex ideas into a minimalist graphic form.
  • Signature Style: Caulfield's signature style quickly became recognizable: geometric shapes rendered in flat hues against black backgrounds. This technique prioritized clarity of form and color over detailed representation, reflecting his belief that “the simplest thing is often the most powerful.”

Notable Works & Achievements

Caulfield’s oeuvre encompasses a diverse range of projects beyond painting, demonstrating his versatility as an artist. He designed stained glass windows for Ivy Restaurant and carpets for British Council headquarters, showcasing his ability to integrate art into architectural spaces. Furthermore, he collaborated on set designs for theatrical productions like ‘Party Game’ and ‘Rhapsody’ at the Royal Opera House, cementing his reputation as a multidisciplinary creative force. His involvement in the 2004 Saatchi Collection fire tragically resulted in the loss of numerous artworks, highlighting the vulnerability of artistic legacies. Despite this setback, Caulfield's enduring influence continues to resonate within the art world, securing his place among Britain’s most celebrated artists.
  • Turner Prize Nomination (1987): Caulfield’s exhibition ‘The Artist’s Eye’ at the National Gallery garnered significant acclaim and earned him a nomination for the prestigious Turner Prize, recognizing his contribution to contemporary art discourse.
  • CBE Recognition (1996): In 1996 Caulfield was awarded Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II, acknowledging his distinguished service to the arts and culture.
  • Yale Center Exhibition (2010): His inclusion in ‘The Independent Eye’ exhibition at Yale Center for British Art alongside fellow artists Howard Hodgkin, John Walker, Ian Stephenson, John Hoyland, and R.B. Kitaj underscored Caulfield's enduring relevance within the broader context of British art history.

Legacy & Influence

Patrick Caulfield’s artistic legacy extends beyond his individual artworks; he profoundly impacted subsequent generations of artists with his unwavering commitment to simplicity and bold visual expression. His reductive style served as inspiration for countless designers and illustrators, establishing a lasting aesthetic tradition rooted in clarity and impactful color palettes. Caulfield's work continues to be exhibited internationally and held in private collections, ensuring that his distinctive vision persists as a testament to the power of understated artistry. He died peacefully in London in 2005, leaving behind an indelible mark on British art history.
Patrick Caulfield

Patrick Caulfield

1936 - 2005 , United Kingdom

Quick Facts

  • Full Name: Patrick Joseph Caulfield
  • Nationality: British
  • Date Of Birth: 1936
  • Date Of Death: 2005
  • Place Of Birth: Acton, United Kingdom
  • Notable Artworks:
    • Cross
    • Greece expiring…
    • Les demoiselles d’Avignon vues de derrière
  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Pop Art
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
    • Andy Warhol
    • Jasper Johns
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Minimalism']
Explore artworks organized by themes, styles, and characteristics.