The artwork “Still Life with Earthen Pot” is a painting by the artist Henri Matisse, dated to 1892. Henri Matisse, notable for his influence in the 20th century, crafted this piece early in his career. The painting reflects the Realism art movement, which emphasizes the depiction of subjects as they are in everyday life, without embellishment or interpretation. This work falls within the genre of still life, which typically features inanimate subjects such as household items, food, or flowers.
In the artwork, various objects are arranged in a composition that centers around an earthen pot, which has tipped onto its side, revealing its interior. Behind the pot, a tall green bottle stands with a highlight indicating a source of light, however, this light is not visible within the painting. To the right, there appears to be a candle fixed onto a metal holder, unlit and stark against the dark background. Other elements visible include a flattened pan, possibly made of copper or another metallic material, and a white object resembling a skimmer or slotted spoon. The color palette is subdued overall, with earthy tones and a play of shadow and light enhancing the three-dimensionality of the objects. The brushwork is precise, lending a textural quality to the surfaces depicted, especially noticeable in the pot’s rounded form and the bottle’s glossy exterior. A signature at the bottom of the artwork confirms its authenticity and draws a connection to Henri Matisse.
