Henri Fantin-Latour was one of the most celebrated still-life painters of the later 19th century. His subtle recording of nuances of light, color, form, and texture in this unassuming group of objects reveals his close observation from life. Here, the light-reflecting qualities of each object are sensitively differentiated through color and brushstroke. Compare, for instance, the highlights along the faceted edge of the crystal dish to the opacity of the Japanese bowl. Although the compositional elements might seem haphazardly selected and arranged, the plump cherries, lacy blossoms, and glossy ceramic dishware reveal a thoughtful and deliberate study of circular forms.

Excerpt from

Nicole R. Myers, DMA label copy, 2017.

• The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles
  Read a biography of the artist from the Getty.

• Musée d'Orsay, Paris
  Check out another still life by Fantin-Latour.