Artwork

Le Vase de tulipes (Tulipes in a Vase)

Le Vase de tulipes (Tulipes in a Vase), by Paul Cezanne, oil, 1896
Le Vase de tulipes (Tulipes in a Vase), by Paul Cezanne, oil, 1896

Le Vase de tulipes (Tulipes in a Vase) is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the Norton Simon Museum.

About this work

Overview

Le Vase de tulipes, painted by Paul Cézanne in 1896, is a Post-Impressionist still life depicting a vase of tulips, accompanied by fruits, set against a light blue background.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on a simple, everyday arrangement of red tulips in a dark green vase and assorted fruits (oranges and lemons), emphasizing solidity and geometric form over transient effects of light.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, expressive brushstrokes and bold colors, the work showcases Cézanne's structured yet dynamic approach to composition, blending perceptual depth with a growing emphasis on geometric solidity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1896, the painting is now part of the Norton Simon Museum's collection, reflecting Cézanne's pivotal role in bridging Impressionism and the emergence of Cubism.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cezanne

Artist

Paul Cezanne

Paul Cézanne was born on January 19, 1839, in Aix-en-Provence, the son of a hatter turned wealthy banker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Norton Simon Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.