“Red Cabbages, Rhubarb and Orange” is a vibrant still life painting by artist Charles Demuth dated 1929. As part of the expressionist movement, this artwork depicts the richly textured and deeply hued organic forms of red cabbages, the long, pink stalks of rhubarb, and a round orange, all of which are set against a pale, nondescript background that allows the colors and forms of the produce to stand out.
The painting is characterized by its bold use of color and careful attention to the natural details of the depicted vegetables and fruit. The cabbages are rendered with varying shades of purple and maroon, highlighting the curly edges and veins of the leaves. Stalks of rhubarb angle across the composition, their gradient coloring from green to pink capturing the eye and adding a sense of depth. Amidst these cooler tones rests an orange, its warmer hue offering a contrast that enlivens the piece. The background is subdued, providing a neutral space that draws attention to the detailed representation of the edible subjects. The overall composition is both a celebration of natural forms and an eloquent expression of the beauty found in everyday objects.
