Still Life of Fruit and Game

Julian Alden Weir

Created:
Movement:
1888
Impressionism
key Notes:
Realistic detail; Harmonious composition
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Dimensions:
21 1/8 x 17 3/16 in. (53.7 x 43.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Still Life of Fruit and Game" is a painting by American artist Julian Alden Weir, created around 1888. Weir was associated with the American Impressionist movement and was known for his landscapes and still lifes. This work exemplifies his interest in capturing the interplay of light and texture, as well as his ability to depict natural forms with a sense of immediacy. The composition features a variety of fruits alongside game, reflecting the traditional still life genre while incorporating elements of realism. Weir's technique often involved the use of vibrant colors and loose brushwork, which can be observed in this piece. The painting is part of a broader exploration of domesticity and abundance in late 19th-century American art. Specific details regarding its provenance or exhibition history are not widely documented.

Description of the work:

"Still Life of Fruit and Game" by Julian Alden Weir, created circa 1888, features a composition that prominently displays an arrangement of various fruits alongside game birds. The painting employs a rich color palette, with deep reds, vibrant greens, and earthy browns that enhance the naturalistic representation of the subjects. The fruits, including grapes, apples, and pears, are rendered with a focus on texture and light, showcasing Weir's skill in capturing the play of light on surfaces. The game birds, likely quail or similar species, are depicted with attention to detail, emphasizing their plumage and form. The background is relatively subdued, allowing the foreground elements to stand out, while the overall composition conveys a sense of abundance and harmony. The use of oil on canvas allows for a smooth application of paint, contributing to the lifelike quality of the still life. The arrangement suggests a balance between the organic forms of the fruit and the more structured shapes of the game, creating a dynamic yet cohesive visual experience.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Still Life of Fruit and Game