#04409 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The drawing presents a still life composition featuring two objects arranged on a horizontal surface. A vase, possessing a bulbous body that tapers towards a slender neck, occupies the left portion of the frame. Its form is rendered with careful attention to its contours and subtle variations in tone, suggesting a textured material – perhaps ceramic or stone. To the right of the vase sits a shallow bowl or dish, its rim slightly elevated and curving outwards. The artist has employed shading to indicate its rounded interior and the gentle slope of its sides.
The objects rest upon a wooden shelf or ledge, depicted with parallel lines that convey both its horizontal plane and the grain of the wood. A muted color palette dominates – primarily shades of gray, brown, and beige – contributing to an overall sense of quietude and restraint. The lighting appears diffused, casting soft shadows that define the forms without creating harsh contrasts.
The composition’s simplicity suggests a focus on form and texture rather than narrative content. There is a deliberate lack of extraneous detail; the background is largely absent, directing attention solely to the objects themselves. This minimalism evokes a contemplative mood, inviting prolonged observation and an appreciation for the subtle nuances of shape and tone. The arrangement feels balanced but not symmetrical, hinting at a naturalness that avoids rigid formality.
Subtly, one might interpret this work as exploring themes of domesticity or everyday beauty. The objects are commonplace – vessels used in daily life – elevated to artistic significance through careful rendering and considered placement. The absence of any human presence further emphasizes the inherent qualities of these inanimate forms, suggesting a meditation on stillness and quietude within the realm of the ordinary.