The artwork, titled “Tomato and Knife,” was created by Richard Diebenkorn in 1963. It is an oil painting on canvas, measuring 14.3 x 20 cm, and belongs to the Expressionism art movement. Classified as a still life, the painting features a vivid depiction of a halved tomato juxtaposed with a knife.
In “Tomato and Knife,” Diebenkorn masterfully captures the everyday subject through expressive and textured brushstrokes. The halved tomato, rendered in rich, vibrant reds, commands immediate attention at the center of the composition. The knife, depicted vertically splitting the tomato, adds a dynamic yet balanced contrast with its cool, metallic hues and precise form. The background is a subdued mix of grays and soft blues, providing a subtle yet effective backdrop that highlights the central objects without distracting from them. The visible brushwork and layered textures add depth and movement, characteristic of the Expressionist style, infusing the seemingly simple scene with emotional resonance and a sense of immediacy.
