Paul Mathey, Nature morte, Oil on Canvas, Framed for sale at Pamono

Description

Paul Albert Mathey is the son of Charles and Elisa Beaujon. Orphaned at 14, he was taken in by an uncle and spent his childhood in New York. In 1931, he married Claire-Lise Monnier, a painter like him. They have exhibited together several times. Between 1905 and 1910, he took evening classes at the Art Student’s League in New York. From 1910 to 1916, he attended the School of Fine Arts in Geneva and was a pupil of Barthlemy Menn. During this period, he received several awards and mentions. In 1916-1917, he worked with Ferdinand Hodler. In 1918, he became a member of the Society of Swiss Painters, Sculptors and Architects (he participated in all of its exhibitions until 1967) and of the Gottfried Keller Foundation (1954-1961). He mainly painted landscapes and still lifes. He also made some theater sets in Geneva. In 1967, he became a Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters. A large part of his works can be found at the Monnier Foundation in Cartigny.

This work evokes a vibrant and textured scene, imbued with captivating emotional depth. In the center of the painting, a richly decorated vase immediately attracts attention. Its intricate surface is enhanced with pops of color that capture the light in an almost hypnotic way, creating a striking contrast against the dark background. Around the vase, a floral arrangement blossoms with a profusion of dynamic colors. The flowers, painted with a bold, gestural technique, seem almost alive, overflowing from the frame of the vase and invading the surrounding space. Shades of reds, yellows and blues blend together harmoniously, while retaining their uniqueness. On the right, an intriguing detail catches the eye: a map or document whose text remains ambiguous, but which contributes to the mysterious atmosphere of the painting. Its discreet presence adds a narrative dimension, inviting the viewer to imagine the story behind this composition. The color palette, primarily dominated by earth tones of red and brown, is deftly balanced by bursts of bright hues, infusing energy and movement into the work. The pictorial technique, with its impasto brushstrokes and rich texture, gives the work a warm and enveloping materiality. As a whole, this painting is a celebration of life and matter, a tribute to the expressive power of color and form. Each element, although potentially chaotic, combines into a harmonious visual symphony, making this work unforgettable.