Still Life with Fan, 1889, oil on canvas, Musee dOr Paul Gauguin (1848-1903)

The composition presents a still life arranged upon a table surface, dominated by a sense of deliberate flatness and geometric structure. A vibrant red backdrop immediately establishes a visual boundary, contrasting sharply with the muted tones of the foreground objects. The artist has employed a limited palette, primarily utilizing greens, yellows, browns, and reds to create a cohesive yet somewhat melancholic atmosphere.
A large, decorative fan occupies a central position, its surface adorned with a miniature landscape depicting trees ablaze in autumnal hues. This painted scene within the fan introduces an element of narrative depth, suggesting a world beyond the immediate reality of the still life arrangement. The fan’s curve disrupts the otherwise rigid geometry, adding a touch of elegance and visual interest.
Below the fan, a cluster of fruit – primarily apples and lemons – is grouped together on a draped cloth. Their forms are rendered with a rough, almost sculptural quality, emphasizing their weight and materiality. A small metal cup sits amongst the fruit, its dark surface reflecting the surrounding light. To the right, a plate holds additional citrus fruits alongside what appear to be cherries or plums, further enriching the textural variety.
A gnarled branch rises from a dark, cylindrical container positioned at the upper right corner of the canvas. This element introduces an organic counterpoint to the manufactured objects and geometric forms present elsewhere in the composition. The branch’s twisting form suggests growth and resilience, while its placement creates a sense of visual balance within the overall arrangement.
The artists brushwork is characterized by visible strokes and a lack of meticulous blending, contributing to a feeling of immediacy and spontaneity. This technique reinforces the impression that the scene has been captured with a directness and honesty. The lighting appears diffused and even, minimizing harsh shadows and emphasizing the textures of the objects.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of transience and the passage of time. The fruit, ripe and ready to decay, symbolizes the ephemeral nature of beauty and existence. The fan’s painted landscape hints at a longing for an idealized past or a distant place, while the overall stillness suggests a moment suspended in time. The deliberate flatness and geometric arrangement contribute to a sense of detachment, inviting contemplation rather than emotional engagement.