#04466 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around two distinct objects: a candle in a gilded candlestick and a pomegranate. These are positioned on a small, circular table with a turned pedestal base. The background is a muted, pale cream color, contributing to an overall sense of quietude and restraint.
The artist’s handling of light is noteworthy. A soft illumination falls upon the objects, highlighting their textures and forms without creating harsh contrasts. The candle flame itself appears small and steady, suggesting a gentle, enduring presence. The pomegranate displays a rich, reddish-pink hue, its surface rendered with subtle variations in tone that imply both smoothness and a slight roughness.
The arrangement is deliberately simple, yet the choice of objects carries symbolic weight. Candles frequently represent mortality, faith, or illumination – a guiding light in darkness. Pomegranates, historically associated with fertility, abundance, and even resurrection across various cultures, add another layer of meaning. The combination suggests themes of life’s fragility alongside its potential for renewal and richness.
The table itself acts as a grounding element, providing a stable platform for these symbolic objects. Its modest scale reinforces the intimacy of the scene, drawing attention to the individual elements rather than any grand narrative. The cropped view – the table is positioned close to the viewer – creates a sense of immediacy, inviting contemplation of the details and their potential significance.
The dark framing around the image further isolates the still life, emphasizing its quiet dignity and enhancing the feeling that this is a moment suspended in time, meant for careful observation.