#29452 Jesús Helguera Ausencia (1910-1971)

The artwork presents a still life arrangement dominated by a profusion of flowers contained within a clear glass vase. The composition is set upon a heavily patterned tablecloth, which in turn rests on what appears to be a polished wooden surface. A partially visible, ornate chair back forms the backdrop, contributing to an overall sense of domesticity and traditional elegance.
The floral selection is diverse; various blooms – including what appear to be chrysanthemums, lavender spikes, and roses – are densely packed together, creating a visually rich texture. The artist has rendered each flower with meticulous detail, capturing subtle variations in color and form. Light plays across the petals and leaves, highlighting their surfaces and contributing to a sense of three-dimensionality.
The tablecloth’s intricate design introduces another layer of complexity. Its floral motif echoes the arrangement above, creating a visual dialogue between the natural and the manufactured. The patterns repetition and density contribute to an atmosphere of abundance and perhaps even slight claustrophobia. The chair back, with its carved details, suggests a history or narrative beyond what is immediately visible.
The artist’s choice of medium – colored pencil – is notable. It allows for a remarkable level of detail and precision, lending the work a hyperrealistic quality. The smooth blending of colors creates a soft, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The inscription at the bottom, SO VERY MERRY - COLORED PENCIL, introduces an element of playful contradiction; while the scene is rendered with technical skill, the accompanying phrase suggests a lighthearted or sentimental intent.
Subtly, the arrangement might be interpreted as a meditation on transience and beauty. The flowers, symbols of life and vitality, are contained within glass – a fragile barrier that underscores their ephemeral nature. The ornate setting, while suggesting luxury and comfort, also hints at the passage of time and the accumulation of objects over years. Ultimately, the work evokes a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty found in everyday moments and the delicate balance between joy and melancholy.