The artwork “Still Life, Pineapples, Lemons” is a creation of Henri Matisse, dating back to 1925. It is an expressionist piece categorized within the still life genre. This painting features the vibrancy and bold use of color for which Matisse is renowned and exemplifies the innovative approach characteristic of the Expressionist movement, where the emotional and psychological impressions take precedence over accurate depiction.
In the artwork, several elements are arranged on a tabletop, capturing the essence of domestic tranquility and the beauty of ordinary objects. The focal point is a pineapple, placed centrally and depicted with a textured surface, sliced open to reveal its bright red core. It sits on a patterned tablecloth, flanked by lemons, some of which are detached, and others are still attached to their branches with lush green leaves. On the left, a footed pedestal holds more lemons, while on the right, there’s a glass vase containing a bouquet of flowers with vibrant reds and blues. The painterly strokes imbue the objects with life and movement. The background is equally treated with active, yet restrained brushwork, indicating a room with paneled walls and decorative elements. Matisse’s mastery of color is evident in the contrast between the warm yellows of the lemons and the cooler tones of the background and tablecloth. The composition balances realism with expressionistic flourishes, creating a still life that is both familiar and strikingly modern.
