1913 Nature morte au pichet et aux pommes Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a ceramic pitcher and several apples. The objects rest upon a simple wooden surface that recedes into a muted, indistinct background. A shallow dish is positioned atop the pitcher, supporting two of the apples. Three apples are visible in total: two on the dish and one resting directly on the table.
The artist’s handling of light contributes significantly to the works mood. Light appears to emanate from an unseen source, illuminating the objects with a soft, diffused glow. This creates subtle gradations of tone across the surfaces, emphasizing their form and texture. The pitcher itself is rendered with careful attention to its contours; one can discern the slight imperfections in the ceramic’s surface through the play of light and shadow. Similarly, the apples exhibit variations in color and sheen, suggesting a tactile quality.
The palette is restrained, dominated by earthy tones – browns, creams, and muted greens – which contribute to an overall sense of quietude and introspection. The limited range of colors focuses attention on the forms themselves rather than any overt display of chromatic vibrancy.
Beyond the purely descriptive elements, the arrangement suggests a deliberate exploration of form and volume. The objects are not arranged in a particularly dynamic or narrative manner; instead, they seem to exist as discrete entities within the space. This stillness invites contemplation about the nature of perception and representation. The simplicity of the composition, coupled with the muted color scheme, evokes a sense of timelessness and understated elegance. One might interpret this arrangement as an exercise in formal reduction – stripping away extraneous details to reveal the essential qualities of the objects depicted.

The dark background serves to isolate the still life, intensifying its presence within the frame. The wooden tables surface is not perfectly smooth; it has a visible grain that adds another layer of texture and visual interest.