“The House and the Tree,” an artwork by Paul Cezanne created circa 1874, is an oil painting on canvas. Measuring 66 x 55.5 cm, this piece is classified within the Impressionist movement and depicts a cityscape scene. Currently, the artwork resides in a private collection, where it continues to embody the aesthetic characteristics and philosophical underpinnings of its art movement.
In the artwork, Cezanne captures a rustic setting that intertwines nature with the built environment. The work is dominated by a central tree whose twisting branches are intricately detailed against the sky. The tree’s presence is complemented by the depiction of a multistory house, partially obscured by the foliage. The artist employs light and shadow to give depth to the scene, and the palette is rich with earthy tones, ranging from the muted greens of the vegetation to the warm oranges and yellows reflecting the sunlight on the structures and ground.
Cezanne’s brushwork is visible and dynamic, contributing to the sense of vibrancy and movement within the painting. He skillfully balances the composition with a mixture of vertical and horizontal elements, creating a harmonious yet lively image. The windows of the house are rendered as simple geometric forms, reflecting a characteristic departure from strict realism towards the abstraction that Cezanne is known for—a precursor to his later work which would ultimately influence the development of modern art.
