Still Life with Geranium

Henri Matisse

Created:
Movement:
1906
Fauvism
key Notes:
Vibrant color palette, Fauvist composition.
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Dimensions:
100.3 × 81.5 cm (39 1/2 × 32 1/8 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Still Life with Geranium" is a painting by Henri Matisse, a prominent figure in the Fauvism movement, known for his use of bold color and expressive brushwork. The work exemplifies Matisse's interest in the interplay of color and form, as well as his exploration of still life as a genre. The painting features a vibrant arrangement of geraniums, which are depicted with a dynamic use of color that emphasizes their natural beauty. Matisse often used still life compositions to experiment with color relationships and spatial organization. The exact date of creation for "Still Life with Geranium" is not definitively recorded, but it is believed to have been painted in the early 20th century, during a period when Matisse was refining his distinctive style. This work reflects Matisse's broader artistic philosophy, which sought to convey emotion and sensation through color rather than realistic representation. "Still Life with Geranium" is part of Matisse's legacy as an innovator in modern art, influencing subsequent generations of artists.

Description of the work:

"Still Life with Geranium" by Henri Matisse features a vibrant arrangement of flowers, prominently displaying geraniums in a vase. The composition is characterized by bold, expressive brushstrokes that convey a sense of movement and vitality. The color palette is rich and varied, with deep reds and greens contrasting against lighter hues, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The background is rendered in a simplified manner, allowing the floral subject to dominate the visual field. Matisse employs a flattened perspective, emphasizing the decorative quality of the arrangement. The overall effect is one of harmony and balance, showcasing Matisse's mastery of color and form within the still life genre.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Still Life with Geranium