Still life with fish. 1930 Konstantin Alekseevich Korovin (1861-1939)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around several fish laid out on a draped surface. Three small fish dominate the foreground, their silvery bodies rendered with visible brushstrokes that capture both texture and light reflection. Their open mouths and vacant eyes contribute to an unsettling stillness, hinting at recent mortality. Behind them, partially obscured by the drape, lie a cluster of onions or similar root vegetables, adding another layer of organic matter to the scene.
To the right, a woven basket sits askew, its contents largely hidden in shadow. Rising from behind the fish and basket are two dark glass bottles, their forms elongated and somewhat imposing against the lighter tones of the foreground elements. The bottles’ presence suggests a potential narrative – perhaps wine intended for consumption alongside the fish.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing muted greens, browns, grays, and whites. This limited range contributes to a somber mood, while the interplay of light and shadow creates depth and visual interest. The artist employed a loose, expressive brushstroke throughout, eschewing precise detail in favor of conveying atmosphere and emotional resonance.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of everyday objects, the painting evokes themes of transience and decay. The fish, symbols of sustenance, are also reminders of mortality. Their lifelessness contrasts with the potential for enjoyment implied by the wine bottles, creating a tension between life and death, pleasure and loss. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, inviting reflection on the cyclical nature of existence and the fragility of beauty.