The artwork, “Still Life with Rayfish” by Chaim Soutine, created in 1924, belongs to the Expressionism art movement and falls under the genre of still life. This painting is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
In this vibrant and vivid still life, Soutine presents an array of objects with dynamic brushstrokes and bold colors characteristic of Expressionism. Dominating the scene is a striking rayfish, its broad fins and textured surface rendered with a variety of hues and expressive lines. Surrounding the rayfish, a collection of items, including a jug, a pitcher with a stirring tool, and a cluster of bright red tomatoes, are arranged on a draped cloth. The artist’s energetic application of paint and the dramatic play of light and shadow contribute to the emotional intensity and complexity of the composition.