The Cincinnati Art Museum boasts of an impressive collection of paintings, including Paul Cézanne’s Still Life with Bread and Eggs. This realist painting was created in 1865, drawing inspiration from the Spanish and Flemish Baroque periods. It is considered one of Cézanne’s earliest works, showcasing his talent for still lifes.
The painting depicts a basket of bread, eggs, and other fruits on a table draped with a white cloth. Perhaps what makes this painting unique is the potential self-portrait hidden beneath its surface. During an inspection by the museum’s chief conservator Serena Urry, a mysterious figure resembling Cézanne was discovered behind layers of paint.
Still Life with Bread and Eggs is one of only two paintings by Cézanne in the Cincinnati Art Museum’s permanent collection but remains popular among visitors due to its exquisite composition and technique. The museum offers educational programs that aim to enrich visitors’ knowledge about this painting as well as other masterpieces housed within its walls.
Overall, Still Life with Bread and Eggs stands as a testament to Paul Cézanne’s artistic genius during his early years. Its intricate details serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists looking to learn more about still lifes while providing insight into the life and works of one of history’s greatest painters.
