“Bundle of Asparagus,” an artwork by Edouard Manet created in 1880 in Paris, France, exemplifies the Realism art movement. This oil-on-canvas still life painting is housed in the Wallraf-Richartz Museum in Cologne, Germany.
The artwork features a tightly bound bundle of white asparagus, set against a backdrop of green leaves and a dark, muted background that contrasts strikingly with the lighter hues of the vegetables. The asparagus stalks are wrapped with two red cords, which add a subtle yet vivid touch of color to the composition. Manet’s meticulous brushwork accurately captures the texture and form of the asparagus, emphasizing the realism and simplicity of everyday objects. The composition is balanced and the details meticulously rendered, showcasing Manet’s skill in highlighting the beauty found in mundane subjects.