Paul Mathey, Nature Morte aux Penses, Oil on Canvas, Framed for sale at Pamono

Description

Read more 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 artwork illustrates a vibrant, texture-rich still life. In the center, a massive and imposing metal pot immediately captures the attention. Its surface, marked by shades of gray and copper, skilfully reflects the surrounding light, creating a fascinating play of reflections. Around the pot, three fruits arranged with calculated precision embellish the composition: a bright orange, a bright yellow lemon and a second orange. These fruits provide a pop of bright color that contrasts effectively with the darker background. A vase containing a flower in purple and yellow hues nestles discreetly next to the pot, adding a dimension of delicacy and subtlety. The choice of colors for the flower creates visual harmony with the fruits, while bringing additional depth to the whole. The background, composed of wide vertical bands in shades of brown and green, perfectly frames the scene. The blue fabric this arrangement sits on adds another layer of texture and color, its drape creating a sense of peaceful movement. Every element of this painting has been carefully considered, creating a delicate balance between robustness and softness. The dynamic and expressive brushstrokes bring a vitality that seems almost palpable. It is a work which, while rooted in the tradition of still lifes, stands out for its modernity and chromatic boldness.