Carnations 

Henri Fantin-Latour created this oil painting titled "Carnations" in the late 19th century. Fantin-Latour was a French painter known for his still-life paintings of flowers and portraits. Here, he captures the delicate beauty of carnations with soft brushstrokes and a keen eye for detail. The dark background accentuates the vibrant colors and textures of the petals, creating a sense of depth and realism. These still-life paintings were popular with the rising middle class in France, who decorated their homes to show their status. Still life painting was often considered a lower subject for fine art. The French academy favoured allegorical and historical paintings. Fantin-Latour’s paintings challenged such institutional biases and found a ready market outside of the academy. To further explore the artistic and social context of Fantin-Latour's work, you can consult historical documents, critical reviews, and biographical accounts of the artist.