Blossoming Almond Branch in a Glass (1888)

Blossoming Almond Branch in a Glass (1888)
One of my favorite still life subjects of Van Gogh, the cut branch in a glass, I ran across this one with the book behind creating a complicated compositional element. Note also the use of complementary colors, red and green, creating a vibration in the painting.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Hans Makart

Happy Birthday Hans Makart!! Austrian painter born today in 1840, Makart quickly rose in popularity. He studied with Karl von Piloty and was given a studio by the emperor of Austria and it became the popular place to be seen, frequented by politicians, artists and royalty. He painted historical scenes in rich colors, with an etheral quality, creating a dreamy, sensual aura. His nudes were often scandalous for the times. Gustav Klimt claims Makart as an influence. Charlotte Wolter as the Empress Messalina is shown here today.

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