The artwork “Still Life with Plaster Cupid” is an exemplary piece by Paul Cezanne, crafted in 1895 using oil on canvas. This vivid work exemplifies the Post-Impressionism art movement, specifically within the still life genre. Currently, it resides in the Nationalmuseum, located in Stockholm, Sweden.
The artwork displays a composition that centers on a plaster statue of Cupid. The figure, rendered with a notable sense of volume and solidity, stands at the heart of the canvas, casting a commanding presence amidst the assorted objects. Surrounding this central figure is an array of fruit, predominantly peaches, artfully arranged on a fabric-draped table. The use of color and light demonstrates Cezanne’s unique handling of these elements, creating a sense of depth and texture that resonates throughout the scene.
Apart from the Cupid and the fruit, the background of the artwork is adorned with various elements that contribute to the composition’s overall dynamic. These include a dark, patterned wallpaper and what appears to be a piece of draped fabric or clothing. The juxtaposition of the domestic interior elements with the classical figure of Cupid creates a fascinating dialogue between the antique and the contemporary.
Cezanne’s brushwork is characteristic of his later style, with looser, more abstract strokes that convey the materiality of the painted objects while also emphasizing the act of perception itself. The geometrical aspect of the composition, a hallmark of Cezanne’s approach to still life, serves to structure the painting and imbues it with a sense of stability.
In summary, the artwork showcases Cezanne’s mastery in transforming everyday objects into a profound visual experience that transcends mere representation, reflecting the artist’s contribution to the foundations of modern art.
