Roses and fruit. 1917 Konstantin Alekseevich Korovin (1861-1939)

The painting Roses and Fruit. 1917 is a vibrant still life featuring a lush bouquet of roses in various shades of pink, white, and deep red, interspersed with abundant green foliage. The roses spill out of a light-colored vase placed on a table. In the foreground, a dish of round, red fruits, possibly apples or plums, is arranged alongside a few other fruits, appearing yellow and green, suggesting a variety of ripening stages. A decorative, patterned bowl also sits among the flowers.
The background is divided into two distinct areas. The upper portion, visible behind the roses, is a bright, shimmering expanse of blue, likely representing the sea under a clear sky. To the right of the roses, a dark, textured form suggests the trunk of a tree, adding a touch of natural element to the composition. The overall impression is one of abundance, natural beauty, and perhaps a celebration of life.
The subtexts of this painting can be interpreted in several ways. The profusion of roses, often associated with love, beauty, and romance, alongside ripe fruits, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the sweetness of life, creates a rich tapestry of positive imagery. The presence of the seascape and tree grounds the scene in nature, suggesting a connection to the outdoors and a peaceful, perhaps idyllic, setting. The date 1917 places the artwork during World War I, a period of great turmoil and hardship. In this context, the painting could be seen as an act of defiance against the darkness of war, offering a sanctuary of beauty and natural harmony. It might represent a longing for peace, a celebration of lifes enduring pleasures, or an attempt to find solace and hope amidst difficult times. The vibrant colors and energetic brushwork further contribute to this sense of life affirming vitality and optimism.