#44004 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

Here we see a still life composition dominated by a bouquet of flowers contained within a vase. The artist has chosen a muted palette, primarily employing shades of pink, brown, and white, which lends the work a sense of quiet introspection. The background is rendered in broad strokes of pinkish-brown, creating an ambiguous space that doesnt offer depth but rather serves to highlight the central subject.
The flowers themselves are not depicted with botanical accuracy; instead, they appear as simplified forms constructed from thick impasto brushstrokes. Their petals are suggested through a series of overlapping white and pink dabs, giving them a textural quality and a sense of immediacy. The stems and leaves are rendered in dark, almost black strokes, providing contrast against the lighter blooms and contributing to the overall feeling of density within the composition.
The vase is positioned centrally and appears somewhat angular, with decorative elements suggested through quick blue markings that break up its otherwise plain surface. It’s not a detailed representation but rather an essential structural element holding the floral arrangement together.
The paintings strength lies in its expressive use of texture and color to convey a mood of understated beauty. The lack of precise detail and the simplified forms suggest a focus on capturing the essence or feeling of the subject matter, rather than a literal depiction. There’s an intentional roughness to the application of paint that contributes to this sense of immediacy and emotional resonance. It evokes a contemplative atmosphere, inviting the viewer to appreciate the simple beauty of everyday objects. The overall effect is one of quiet elegance and subtle melancholy.