Henri Matisse’s “Still Life with Oranges,” created in 1898, is an oil on canvas painting that belongs to the Post-Impressionism art movement. Measuring 45.7 x 55 cm, this still life genre artwork is housed in a private collection and exhibits the artist’s early exploration of color and form.
The artwork depicts a table scene rich in color and texture. The table, set against a loose, brushy background of greens and yellows, exudes warmth with its reddish hue. On it, a collection of objects is arranged: a bowl of oranges, vivid in their citrus tones, serves as the focal point, accompanied by a tall bottle, a decanter, and a cup. The oranges are offset by the darker tones of the bottle and the decanter’s reflective surface, which catches the light. To the right, a loaf of bread adds a touch of domestic simplicity to the composition. The play of light and shadow, coupled with the intense colors and bold brushwork, creates a lively and dynamic still life that captures the eye and holds the viewer’s attention. Matisse’s signature is prominently displayed at the bottom right, anchoring the piece in its historical context.
