The artwork titled “Edison Mazda,” created by Stuart Davis in 1924, is a notable piece representative of the Cubist art movement. Classified under the genre of still life, it demonstrates Davis’s bold and pioneering approach to form and color.
In the artwork, the viewer can observe a meticulously arranged still life composition featuring a blue light bulb and a glass goblet. The goblet, which dominates the left side of the composition, is depicted with precise detailing and a sheen, giving it a realistic touch. The blue light bulb, positioned horizontally and adjacent to the goblet, contrasts starkly against the muted background. The backdrop features a dark blue, grid-like pattern, adding a geometric dimension to the piece, while the rest of the setting is illustrated with a subtle use of lines and dots. The overall arrangement exemplifies the Cubist inclination towards abstraction and geometric fragmentation, capturing everyday objects in a transformed, almost fragmented manner. The careful use of color, combined with the structured layout, enhances the visual impact, creating a harmonious yet striking visual experience.