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.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Paul Cesar Helleu


Happy Birthday Paul Cesar Helleu!! French born painter and engraver from 1859, Helleu's work chronicles France at the turn of the century. In 1876 he attended an Impressionist exhibit which was to greatly influence his work thereafter. He painted society ladies whose commissions helped establish his fortune. However his portraits of his wife Alice are perhaps his best loved for their sensitivity and grace. He also loved the sea and created many works on the subject. The pastel portrait included today is of Madame Helleu. Isn't the vantage point unique and interesting?



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