The artwork “Still Life with Asphodels” is an expressionist painting by Henri Matisse created in 1907. This still life measures 114 x 87 cm and is part of the collection at the Folkwang Museum in Essen, Germany. The genre of still life is evident as Matisse captures the arrangement of inanimate objects in a domestic setting.
In the artwork, one can observe a vibrant composition with asphodel flowers taking center stage. These flowers are prominently displayed in a dark vase and stand out against a backdrop characterized by stark color contrasts. Matisse’s use of vivid hues and expressive brushstrokes is typical of the Expressionist movement, which sought to evoke emotional response through the bold use of color and dynamic forms rather than a realistic portrayal. The table is adorned with various objects including decorative ceramics, a fan, and a bowl containing lemons, which contribute to the rich visual texture of the painting. The overall effect of the artwork is one of a joyous celebration of color and form.
