“The Pink Candle,” a work by Henri Rousseau created during 1909-1910, is an oil on canvas piece associated with the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. As a genre, it falls under still life and is located at the Philips Collection in Washington, DC, United States. This artwork encapsulates Rousseau’s unique interpretation of reality, characterized by a simplistic and unrefined aesthetic that marks his contributions to art history.
The artwork exhibits a collection of objects arranged in a manner typical of still life paintings, but with the distinctive touch that Rousseau is known for. At the center of the composition stands a pink candle mounted on a small candle holder, from which the artwork derives its name. Surrounding the candle are fruits, including what appear to be oranges and cherries, arranged on a plate. Adjacent to the plate, a bottle of dark liquid—possibly wine—bears a label, though the text is not clearly discernible. Behind these objects, a large piece of cheese and a red textile, perhaps a napkin or tablecloth, create a contrast of textures and colors. The warm hues and the modest attempt at shading and depth give the scene a quaint and homely atmosphere. The signature “H. Rousseau” can be observed at the bottom left of the canvas, attributing the piece to its creator. Overall, the juxtaposition of everyday items in this artwork reflects Rousseau’s straightforward approach to representing the domestic and the familiar.
