Artwork

Apples

Apples, by Gustave Courbet, oil, 1871
Apples, by Gustave Courbet, oil, 1871

Apples is an oil painting by the Realist artist Gustave Courbet. It dates from 1871 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Western Art.

About this work

Overview

Apples is a 1871 oil painting by Gustave Courbet, a prominent figure in 19th-century French Realism. The work is part of the National Museum of Western Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts four apples, arranged in a row on a table, with a dark background. The still life composition allows for an exploration of form and texture, consistent with Courbet's artistic practice.

Technique & Style

The apples are rendered in thick, heavy brushstrokes, creating a textured appearance. The use of impasto technique contributes to the painting's sense of depth and dimensionality, while the color palette emphasizes the contrast between the apples and the muted background.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gustave Courbet

Artist

Gustave Courbet

Jean Désiré Gustave Courbet (UK: KOOR-bay; US: koor-BAY; French: ; 10 June 1819 – 31 December 1877) was a French painter who led the Realism movement in 19th-century French painting.