Natura morta 1927 29 Pere Daura

The composition presents a still life arranged on a table surface that is itself part of a larger, abstract backdrop. A wicker basket, overflowing with fruit – primarily what appear to be cherries or small plums – dominates the left side of the scene. The basket’s form is rendered with loose lines and a sense of immediacy, suggesting a casual arrangement rather than meticulous precision.
To the right of the basket, a blue vase holds a cluster of pale flowers, likely daffodils given their shape and color. These blooms introduce a contrasting element of verticality and delicacy against the heavier, more grounded presence of the fruit. A scattering of small objects – possibly lemons or other citrus fruits – are positioned in front of the vase, adding depth to the arrangement.
The entire scene is enveloped within an environment defined by broad planes of color, predominantly shades of red-orange. These planes are not uniformly applied; instead, they exhibit variations in tone and texture, creating a sense of atmospheric perspective and visual complexity. The artist employed a technique that emphasizes the materiality of the paint itself – brushstrokes are visible, and the surface appears somewhat rough, contributing to an overall impression of spontaneity.
The color palette evokes warmth and a certain melancholy. The dominance of red-orange can be interpreted as symbolizing vitality or passion, while the muted tones and the presence of decaying fruit might suggest themes of transience and the passage of time. The arrangement feels staged, yet not entirely artificial; it is an observation of everyday objects imbued with a quiet emotional weight.
The background planes seem to press in on the still life, creating a sense of enclosure or confinement. This effect could be read as symbolic of limitations or introspection. Ultimately, the painting conveys a mood that is both intimate and slightly unsettling – a meditation on beauty, decay, and the fleeting nature of existence.