The artwork “Still Life with a Red Rug” is an oil on canvas painting by Henri Matisse, completed in 1906. Measuring 89 by 116.5 centimeters, this work is an exemplar of the Expressionism movement, particularly manifest in the still life genre to which it belongs. The artwork captures attention with its vibrant color palette and dynamic brushwork.
Matisse’s painting is characterized by a bold use of color and non-naturalistic representation, which are hallmarks of Expressionism. The red rug with its striking pattern dominates much of the composition, adding warmth and depth to the scene. The painting features various objects including a watermelon, a decorative plate with fruits, an open-faced book, and an intricately designed silver platter housing an apple and a lemon. In the background, a piece of furniture draped with a patterned fabric and a darkly framed mirror or painting on the wall complete the ensemble. Notably,the artwork lacks the meticulous detail and realism of earlier art movements, instead prioritizing emotional expression through exaggerated forms and intense colors. Matisse’s innovative approach to form and color was influential in the development of modern art. This particular piece is a fine representation of the artist’s departure from traditional still life compositions, allowing the viewer to experience the ordinary depicted with extraordinary vibrance and energy.
