#04448 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around two distinct fruit groupings: a cluster of dark grapes and a single pomegranate. These objects rest upon a horizontal plane that subtly transitions in color from a muted blue at the bottom to a pale yellow-green near the top, creating an illusion of depth without sharp delineation. The background is rendered in a uniform, light beige tone, devoid of any discernible texture or detail, which serves to isolate and emphasize the fruits themselves.
The grapes are arranged in a compact bundle, their dark purple hue contrasting with the brighter tones surrounding them. Their arrangement suggests weight and density, while the visible stem introduces a delicate, organic element. The pomegranate, positioned slightly further from the viewer, dominates the right side of the frame. Its vibrant orange-red color draws immediate attention, and its rounded form is punctuated by the subtle suggestion of seeds within.
The lighting appears to be diffused and even, eliminating strong shadows and contributing to a sense of quiet stillness. The artist’s brushwork seems deliberate, with careful attention paid to rendering the textures of the fruit – the smooth skin of the pomegranate versus the slightly rough surface of the grapes.
Beyond the purely descriptive elements, the painting evokes a contemplative mood. The choice of fruits carries symbolic weight; pomegranates are often associated with abundance, fertility, and knowledge, while grapes can represent joy, celebration, or even suffering depending on cultural context. The deliberate simplicity of the composition, coupled with the muted color palette, suggests an exploration of themes related to natures bounty, transience, and perhaps a subtle meditation on mortality. The lack of any human presence further reinforces this sense of quiet introspection, inviting the viewer to consider the inherent beauty and significance of these natural forms.