Still Life with Apples and a Pot of Primroses

Paul Cézanne

Created:
Movement:
1895
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Harmonious Composition; Subdued Palette
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Dimensions:
28 3/4 x 36 3/8 in. (73 x 92.4 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Still Life with Apples and a Pot of Primroses" is a painting by French artist Paul Cézanne, created around 1890. This work exemplifies Cézanne's innovative approach to still life, characterized by his use of color and form to convey depth and structure. The composition features a grouping of apples alongside a pot of primroses, showcasing Cézanne's interest in the interplay between organic forms and geometric shapes. The painting reflects his exploration of color theory, with a palette that emphasizes the warm tones of the apples contrasted against the cooler hues of the flowers. Cézanne's technique involves visible brushstrokes and a focus on the arrangement of objects, which contributes to the overall sense of balance and harmony. The work is part of the broader context of Cézanne's oeuvre, which sought to bridge Impressionism and modern art. The exact provenance of this painting is not well-documented, and its exhibition history remains largely unknown.

Description of the work:

"Still Life with Apples and a Pot of Primroses" by Paul Cézanne, created circa 1890, features a composition that centers on a cluster of apples arranged on a table alongside a pot of primroses. The apples are rendered in a range of red, yellow, and green hues, showcasing Cézanne's characteristic brushwork that emphasizes form and volume. The pot of primroses, depicted with delicate white and yellow flowers, contrasts with the solidity of the fruit. The background is composed of muted tones that enhance the vibrancy of the still life elements. Cézanne employs a structured arrangement, with a strong diagonal line created by the placement of the apples and the pot, guiding the viewer's eye through the composition. The use of light and shadow adds depth, while the textured surface of the canvas reveals the artist's methodical layering of paint. Overall, the painting exemplifies Cézanne's innovative approach to still life, merging observation with a unique sense of spatial organization.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Still Life with Apples and a Pot of Primroses