“Amour in Plaster” is an artwork by Paul Cezanne, created circa 1867. This oil on canvas painting measures 57.8 by 36.8 centimeters and belongs to the Romanticism movement. Initially, it might be categorized as a still life, although it does not depict the traditional subject matter typically associated with that genre. The artwork is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a plaster cast of a classical sculpture, which is a subject that contrasts with the conventional themes associated with still life, generally comprising objects such as fruit, flowers, or dead game. The plaster cast is modeled with a high degree of tonal contrast, conveying its three-dimensional form. Shadows and highlights are masterfully applied to create a sense of volume and space. The background is loosely painted, with expressive brushstrokes that suggest foliage and an environment in which the sculpture might be situated. The color palette is relatively muted, with emphasis on the monochromatic representation of the plaster cast, while subtle hints of color in the background add depth and context. This piece might reflect Cezanne’s ongoing exploration of form and structure, themes that he would continue to elaborate on throughout his career.
