#04440 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The composition presents a still life arranged on what appears to be a table draped with a pale yellow cloth. The arrangement is simple and restrained, focusing on a small selection of objects: a wooden bowl, a ceramic vase, a box (possibly containing confectionary), and a glass cylinder filled with paintbrushes.
A significant portion of the canvas is occupied by the wall behind the table, which is rendered in muted tones, creating an atmosphere of quietude and introspection. The light source seems to originate from the upper left corner, casting subtle shadows that define the forms and contribute to the overall sense of depth. The illumination isnt harsh; instead, it softens the edges of the objects and creates a hazy, almost dreamlike quality.
The color palette is limited, primarily consisting of earthy tones – browns, yellows, grays – with touches of pink in the box. This restricted range reinforces the feeling of simplicity and restraint. The textures are subtly conveyed through brushwork; the roughness of the wooden bowl contrasts with the smooth surface of the vase and the crispness of the cloth.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of everyday objects, the painting suggests themes of creative process and domesticity. The presence of the paintbrushes in the glass cylinder directly alludes to artistic creation, while the arrangement itself feels staged, as if capturing a moment within an artists studio or workspace. The bowl and box introduce elements of sustenance and comfort, hinting at the quiet routines of daily life.
The overall effect is one of contemplative stillness. There’s a deliberate absence of narrative; the viewer is invited to observe and reflect on the beauty of ordinary objects and the subtle nuances of light and shadow. The compositions sparseness encourages a close examination of form, color, and texture, inviting a meditative engagement with the scene.