1901 Nature morte (Le dessert) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The composition presents a still life arrangement on what appears to be a draped table. A central focus is drawn to a bowl brimming with oranges, its form rendered in a simplified, almost geometric manner. The bowls decorative pattern introduces a layer of complexity, hinting at an interest in surface design and ornamentation. To the left, a vase holds a bouquet of flowers – a mix of white blossoms and smaller, yellow blooms – their forms similarly abstracted and presented with bold brushstrokes.
A plate laden with oysters occupies a prominent position near the center foreground. The shells are depicted with a muted palette, contrasting with the vibrancy of the oranges and flowers. Scattered around the plate are several lemons, adding to the assortment of textures and colors. A glass jar, adorned with an intricate pattern of red and black markings, sits on the right side of the table, alongside a single orange.
The artist’s use of color is notable; a dominant blue-green tone pervades the background and table covering, creating a cool backdrop against which the warmer hues of the fruit and flowers stand out. The application of paint seems deliberate, with visible brushstrokes contributing to a sense of immediacy and texture. Theres an intentional flattening of perspective, reducing depth cues and emphasizing the two-dimensionality of the canvas.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of objects, the arrangement suggests a contemplation on themes of abundance and consumption. The presence of oysters, traditionally considered a luxury food item, alongside commonplace fruits like oranges and lemons, might imply a commentary on social class or the pleasures of the table. The simplified forms and bold colors could be interpreted as an exploration of visual language, moving away from traditional representational techniques towards a more conceptual approach to subject matter. The overall effect is one of controlled disorder, where familiar objects are presented in an unfamiliar way, inviting closer scrutiny and reflection on their significance.