Still Life with Apples and Pears

Paul Cézanne

Created:
Movement:
1892
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
Geometric Composition, Subdued Palette
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Dimensions:
17 5/8 x 23 1/8 in. (44.8 x 58.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Still Life with Apples and Pears" is a painting by French Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne, created around 1891–92. This work exemplifies Cézanne's innovative approach to still life, characterized by his use of geometric forms and a focus on the interplay of color and light. The composition features a simple arrangement of apples and pears, rendered with a distinctive brushstroke that emphasizes the texture of the fruit. Cézanne's exploration of perspective and depth is evident in the way he constructs the space around the objects. The painting reflects his desire to capture the essence of the subject rather than a mere representation. It is part of a series of still lifes that Cézanne produced, which contributed significantly to the development of modern art. The current location of the painting is unknown, but it is held in a private collection.

Description of the work:

"Still Life with Apples and Pears" by Paul Cézanne, created circa 1891–92, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the artist's innovative approach to still life composition. The painting features a carefully arranged group of apples and pears, rendered with a distinctive brushstroke that emphasizes form and volume. The color palette is characterized by warm tones of red, yellow, and green, which create a harmonious interplay of light and shadow. Cézanne's use of geometric shapes is evident in the depiction of the fruit, contributing to a sense of solidity and structure. The background is rendered in muted tones, allowing the fruit to emerge as the focal point of the composition. The overall arrangement reflects Cézanne's interest in the relationship between objects and their spatial context, showcasing his departure from traditional still life conventions. The work is notable for its exploration of color and form, which would later influence the development of modern art.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Still Life with Apples and Pears