#43936 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a white vase holding a cluster of flowers. The blooms dominate the visual field, their intense red hue immediately drawing the eye. These are not rendered with botanical accuracy; instead, they appear as blocks of color, suggesting an abstracted representation rather than a faithful depiction. A smaller, darker bloom is positioned to the right of the central arrangement, partially obscured by the larger flowers and contributing to a sense of depth within the scene.
The vase itself is simplified in form, its stark whiteness contrasting sharply with the surrounding darkness and the vibrant color of the flowers. It sits upon a horizontal surface that extends across the lower portion of the canvas. This plane appears somewhat uneven, adding a subtle textural element to the otherwise flat composition. A dark shape, possibly another flower or foliage, is visible on the right edge, further defining the spatial boundaries.
The background is uniformly black, creating a void that isolates the still life and intensifies its visual impact. The absence of detail in the background eliminates any sense of narrative context, focusing attention solely on the arrangement itself.
Subtly, the painting conveys a mood of quiet contemplation. The limited palette and simplified forms suggest an interest in exploring essential qualities rather than surface appearances. The intense red color could be interpreted as symbolizing passion or vitality, while the dark background might evoke feelings of melancholy or introspection. The overall effect is one of restrained emotion and formal elegance. The artist’s signature appears in the lower right corner, providing a sense of authorship without disrupting the visual harmony of the work.