“Sculpture and Vase of Ivy” is a still life painting by Henri Matisse, created in 1916. It contributes to the oeuvre of Matisse’s work that spans different styles and subjects, offering a glimpse into his artistic explorations during that period.
The artwork portrays a composition that juxtaposes a sculptural figure with a vase of ivy, elements that are anchored on a piece of furniture, possibly a table or a sideboard. Matisse has employed a rich palette that consists of dark blues, vibrant greens, and warm earth tones. A stark contrast is created by the blue background and the tabletop which seems to have a textured ambiance. The forms are simplified yet expressive, suggesting volume and space with a dynamic play of color and light.
The vase, which holds the ivy, is depicted with a sense of geometric clarity, its body showing a reflection or a pattern that contributes to the overall harmony of the piece. The ivy appears to reach out from the vase with organic, sinuous lines, providing a lively contrast to the angularity of the vase.
The sculptural element adds a classical reference, invoking the human figure, with its contours and curves contributing to the composition’s rhythmic quality. The scattered lemons on the tabletop introduce another layer of vibrant color and form into the scene.
Overall, the artwork embodies a balance between the stillness implied by the genre and the dynamic tension created by the juxtaposition of forms and colors. Matisse’s mastery in color theory and innovative approach to form are evident in this representational yet abstracted still life.
