“Still Life on Corner of a Mantelpiece,” created by Vanessa Bell in 1914, is a Post-Impressionist still life oil painting on canvas. This artwork is currently housed in Tate Britain, London, UK.
The artwork portrays an assortment of objects carefully organized on the corner of a mantelpiece. Its composition includes what appear to be books, containers, and flowers, rendered with geometric precision and a delicate balance of colored planes. The forms are simplified, with an emphasis on flat areas of color rather than intricate details, which is characteristic of the Post-Impressionism movement. The palette consists predominantly of muted tones, conveying a serene, contemplative ambiance. The overall arrangement and use of color draw the viewer’s attention to the harmony and balance within a seemingly casual setting, reflecting Bell’s unique approach to still life composition.
