img177 Paul Gauguin (1848-1903)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a substantial cut of meat, prominently displayed on a circular plate. The meat itself is rendered in deep reds and browns, with visible marbling suggesting richness and quality. Around the base of the meat are several small bulbs, likely garlic or shallots, adding textural contrast and hinting at culinary preparation. A glass filled with a dark liquid sits adjacent to the food items, completing the scene’s domestic nature.
The arrangement is placed on a round table, its surface reflecting light in a way that suggests a slightly worn or aged quality. The background consists of vertical panels painted in warm ochre and orange tones, punctuated by decorative elements resembling stylized floral patterns. These patterns are rendered with a simplified, almost geometric style, contributing to the overall flatness of the composition.
The artist’s use of color is notable. The intense red of the meat contrasts sharply with the muted greens and browns of the plate and table, drawing immediate attention to the central subject. The backgrounds warm hues create an atmosphere that feels both cozy and slightly melancholic.
Beyond a simple depiction of food, the painting evokes themes of sustenance, abundance, and perhaps even mortality. The raw nature of the meat suggests a connection to primal needs and the cycle of life and death. The simplicity of the setting and the somewhat somber color palette might imply a reflection on everyday existence or a quiet contemplation of human necessities. Theres an austerity in the presentation; it’s not celebratory, but rather a straightforward portrayal of something essential.

The overall effect is one of restrained realism, with a deliberate avoidance of elaborate detail or sentimentality.