lotus flowers (oya, japan) c1900 Lilla Cabot Perry

The composition presents a cluster of lotus flowers and their foliage emerging from a dark, reflective surface. The artist has rendered the scene with broad, expressive brushstrokes, prioritizing color and form over precise detail. Here we see several large, rounded leaves dominating the foreground; they are painted in varying shades of green, punctuated by touches of yellow and blue that suggest light reflecting off their surfaces. These leaves overlap and curve, creating a sense of depth and volume.
Several lotus blossoms, depicted in white with hints of pink and lavender, punctuate the arrangement. They appear luminous against the darker background, drawing the viewers eye to their delicate forms. The petals are loosely rendered, conveying an impression of fragility and transience.
The dark surface upon which the flowers float is not clearly defined; it appears as a deep, reddish-brown expanse that merges with the surrounding darkness. This ambiguity contributes to a sense of mystery and stillness. The lack of horizon line or other contextual elements isolates the subject, focusing attention solely on the botanical forms.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of purity and renewal often associated with lotus flowers in Eastern cultures. Their emergence from murky waters symbolizes spiritual awakening and transcendence. The muted color palette and loose brushwork contribute to a contemplative mood, suggesting a quiet observation of natures beauty and resilience. The artist’s choice to minimize detail encourages introspection and invites the viewer to engage with the scene on an emotional level rather than a purely representational one. There is a sense of serenity conveyed through the composition, despite the somewhat unconventional color choices that depart from a strictly naturalistic depiction.