The artwork, titled “Neapolitan Cupcakes,” was created by Wayne Thiebaud in 2008. Executed in oil on cardboard, this piece belongs to the Pop Art movement and falls within the still life genre. Thiebaud, known for his depictions of everyday objects, presents a simple yet vivid portrayal in this artwork.
“Neapolitan Cupcakes” showcases three cupcakes aligned neatly in a row. Each cupcake features a distinctively colored frosting, reminiscent of the flavors found in Neapolitan ice cream: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. The cupcakes rest on a surface that exhibits a gradient of pastel hues, blending gently into a muted brownish background. The artist’s signature textural brushstrokes and use of color create a sense of depth and dimensionality, while also highlighting the whimsical and almost nostalgic quality of the subject matter. The overall composition is straightforward yet engaging, drawing attention to the delightful and almost playful nature of the cupcakes.