Still life with apples

Before you is "Still Life with Apples," a captivating 1924 painting by Pierre Bonnard, part of the Villa Flora collection. This intimate work, measuring 49 centimeters wide and 32 centimeters high, presents a vibrant still life arrangement. Notice the artist's masterful use of color, characteristic of his Post-Impressionistic style. Warm oranges and reds in the tomatoes and oranges are beautifully contrasted by cooler greens and yellows in the apples, perhaps accompanied by a lemon or pear. A cluster of dark purple grapes adds further richness to the composition. Hints of green vegetables peek out from amongst the fruit, contributing to the overall sense of abundance. nn The light is soft and diffused, avoiding harsh shadows and allowing the colors to blend seamlessly, creating a luminous depth. The background is subtly suggested, with blurry hints of browns and blues hinting at the surrounding room. The white tablecloth, rendered with visible brushstrokes, shows delicate hints of blue, pink, or red. Bonnard's expressive brushwork and subjective use of color elevate this simple still life into a visually engaging and emotionally resonant piece, capturing a feeling of casual abundance and domestic intimacy. The overall effect is one of warmth and inviting domesticity.