The artwork titled “Still Life (The Dessert)” is a creation by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, dating back to 1901. This oil on canvas painting measures 59 by 78 centimeters and is associated with the Post-Impressionism movement. The genre of the artwork is still life, a traditional category focusing on inanimate subject matter, typically commonplace objects which may be either natural (food, flowers, dead animals, plants, rocks, shells, etc.) or man-made (glasses, books, vases, jewelry, coins, pipes, etc.).
The artwork depicts a table array with various items related to a dessert course. Prominently, there is a vase full of vibrantly colored flowers, adding a touch of life and aesthetic appeal to the composition. Adjacent to it rests a bowl filled with what appears to be oranges, its blue exterior matching the deep hues of the background. Below, a plate presents neatly sectioned fruits, possibly citrus, that are ready to be enjoyed, while a lone apple and a glass jar containing green olives or some other small fruits are situated to the right. Two glass tumblers lie on their side, reflecting light and hinting at a meal concluded or in casual progress. The brushwork is loose and expressive, common to Post-Impressionistic techniques, and yet the arrangement retains a sense of order and contemplation that characterizes still life art. Picasso’s varying textures and the thick application of paint bring a tactile sensation, inviting viewers to almost feel the surfaces before them. The color palette consists of cool tones interspersed with spots of warm yellows and reds, creating a dynamic yet harmonized visual experience.
