The artwork “Fish chowder” by Pablo Picasso, dates back to 1960 and measures 49 x 108 cm. Rendered in oil on canvas, it belongs to the Surrealism movement and is categorized under the genre of still life. In this piece, Picasso offers a depiction that may challenge the viewer’s perception of reality, a characteristic trait of Surrealism.
In the artwork, there is a discernible juxtaposition of objects placed on what appears to be a table or a flat surface. The composition features items that might typically be associated with a kitchen or dining setting, suggesting the theme of food and meal preparation, in accordance with the title. Elements such as the bulbous form resembling an onion on the left and other abstract shapes, possibly representing various components of a meal or utensils, are arranged in a manner that defies immediate recognition, inviting closer inspection and interpretation.
The use of color in the artwork is relatively muted, with a limited palette that emphasizes earthy tones contrasted by the green background, which may represent a wall or a space behind the tabletop. The brushwork is expressive and seems to be applied with a freedom that supports the surrealist intention, creating a texture that adds to the overall sense of abstraction. The spatial relationships between the objects do not adhere strictly to realistic proportions or perspectives, which is another hallmark of Picasso’s later work as well as the Surrealist genre.
