Still life with sunflowers Boris Grigoriev (1886-1939)

The composition presents a still life arrangement dominated by sunflowers in varying states of decay. Here we observe three prominent blooms, their petals drooping and browning, suggesting a passage of time and the inevitable decline inherent in organic matter. The artist has rendered them with an expressive brushstroke, emphasizing texture and movement rather than precise botanical accuracy.
The flowers are contained within a squat, reddish-brown vase, its surface similarly treated with vigorous application of paint, obscuring any clear definition of form. This vessel appears almost as substantial as the sunflowers themselves, contributing to a sense of weighty presence in the scene. The background is dark and indistinct, furthering the focus on the central arrangement.
The color palette is restrained but impactful. Yellows and browns dominate, reflecting the aging process of the flowers, while touches of green remain within the leaves, hinting at life persisting even amidst decline. The reddish hue of the vase provides a contrasting warmth that prevents the composition from becoming overly somber.
Beyond the purely descriptive elements, the painting evokes themes of transience and mortality. The sunflowers, traditionally symbols of adoration and longevity, are depicted in their fading glory, prompting reflection on the ephemeral nature of beauty and life itself. There is an underlying melancholy present, not necessarily negative, but rather a contemplative acceptance of natural cycles.
The artist’s technique – the loose brushwork and expressive rendering – contributes to this feeling. It suggests a subjective interpretation of reality, prioritizing emotional resonance over objective representation. The work doesnt merely depict sunflowers; it conveys an experience of observing them, acknowledging their beauty alongside their inevitable decline.