The plane trees in Céret. Liberty Square Chaïm Soutine (1893-1943)

Here we observe a dense composition dominated by vertical forms that suggest trees or architectural structures. The palette is largely composed of greens, browns, and ochres, punctuated by flashes of red and touches of blue. These colors are applied with vigorous brushstrokes, creating a palpable sense of texture and movement across the canvas.
The artist’s approach to form appears less concerned with precise representation than with conveying an emotional response to the subject matter. The trees – or whatever these vertical elements signify – are not rendered realistically; instead, they twist and contort in a manner that evokes both energy and instability. Their trunks seem to merge and overlap, creating a complex network of lines and planes. Light plays a crucial role, illuminating certain areas while leaving others shrouded in shadow, further enhancing the dynamism of the scene.
The overall effect is one of controlled chaos. While there’s an undeniable sense of disorder, its tempered by a clear compositional structure – the verticality of the forms anchors the eye and provides a visual rhythm. The limited color range contributes to a feeling of somberness or introspection. One might interpret this as a depiction not merely of a place but also of a psychological state – perhaps one characterized by tension, resilience, or an awareness of underlying forces at play.
The absence of human figures is significant; the focus remains entirely on the environment and its inherent power. This isolation contributes to a sense of timelessness, suggesting that this scene exists outside of specific historical context. The painting seems to explore themes of natures strength, the passage of time, and the subjective experience of place.