The artwork “Still Life with Pitcher and Fruit” by Henri Matisse, dated circa 1898, is an oil on canvas piece measuring 38 x 46.3 cm. Influenced by Divisionism and Neo-Impressionism, the painting is an exemplar of the still life genre, and it currently resides within a private collection.
In the artwork, a rich tapestry of vibrant colors creates a dynamic and textured surface that captures the viewer’s attention. Matisse employs a technique that gives the impression of light dancing across the objects, which include a pitcher and an assortment of fruit within a bowl. The brushstrokes are lively and energetic, which is indicative of the Divisionism style, decomposing colors into separate strokes that blend from a distance. The careful attention to color harmony and the effect of light is a hallmark of Neo-Impressionistic influence.
The composition itself is traditional, centered on domestic simplicity. The pitcher and the fruit bowl are the focal points, situated on a surface that suggests a table. Matisse’s use of contrasting hues and bold brushwork infuses the still life with a sense of movement and spontaneity. Despite the commonality of the subject matter, the artist’s approach to color and form brings a fresh perspective to the timeless genre, reflecting the innovative spirit of the turn of the 20th century.
