“Metaphysical Interior with Biscuits,” an oil on canvas artwork created in 1916 by Giorgio de Chirico, is a notable piece within the Metaphysical art movement. Measuring 81.3 by 65.1 cm, it falls into the genre of interior artwork. This piece is currently housed in the Menil Collection in Houston, Texas, United States.
The artwork depicts an enigmatic interior scene filled with an eclectic mix of objects that challenge conventional perspectives. At the forefront, there is a blue panel adorned with two round biscuits at the top and a row of three rectangular, textured objects beneath them, evoking a surreal juxtaposition. The background features a fragmented construction that incorporates architectural elements, such as a classical archway, alongside more abstract and geometric shapes. Delicate gradations of color lead the eye upwards, with rays of color emanating from a centralized point in the upper portion, adding depth and intrigue. This composition invites viewers into a dreamlike, otherworldly realm, characteristic of de Chirico’s metaphysical approach, which often combines elements of the real and the imaginary to provoke contemplation and wonder.
