Still Life (Flowers and Fruit) - Marsden Hartley

A vibrant still life by Marsden Hartley, c. 1910, featuring flowers and fruit in bold colours and expressive pastel strokes. A striking example of early American Modernism.

This vibrant still life by American modernist Marsden Hartley, created around 1910, showcases the artist's early exploration of colour and form. Hartley, known for his later, more abstract works, here presents a scene of domestic tranquility: a simple vase filled with stylised yellow flowers, accompanied by an assortment of fruit – oranges, lemons, and what appears to be a russet potato – arranged on a draped surface. The composition is bold and expressive, with thick, visible pastel strokes that lend a tactile quality to the image. The background is a deep, moody blue, which contrasts beautifully with the bright yellows and oranges of the fruit and flowers. Hartley's use of colour and simplified forms reflects the influence of European modernism, particularly the work of Cézanne and Matisse, which he encountered during his travels abroad. This print offers a glimpse into Hartley's artistic development, capturing a moment of experimentation and discovery. It would make a striking addition to any room, bringing a touch of early 20th-century American art into your home. The bold colours and expressive brushwork create a sense of energy and vitality, making it a perfect focal point for a living room, dining room, or study.