Still Life 1879

Gustave Caillebotte made this still life painting with oil on canvas, using traditional art materials in a non-traditional way. Caillebotte's Still Life is all about the interplay of light on different surfaces. The way he's handled the paint – thick in some areas, thin in others – gives the objects on the table a real sense of volume and presence. You can almost feel the weight of the fruit and the cool smoothness of the crystal decanters. What’s interesting is how Caillebotte uses these expensive, mass-produced objects to give us a glimpse into the world of the Parisian bourgeoisie. Crystal glassware like this was produced in factories and was relatively new, reflecting the rise of consumer culture. Caillebotte, who came from a wealthy family, shows us the beauty in these everyday items, elevating them to art. Ultimately, this painting reminds us that even the simplest objects can tell a story about society, labor, and consumption. By paying attention to materials, making, and context, we can understand the full meaning of an artwork.