Mid-Century French still life of roses in a vase, oil on canvas by Marseille artist Henri Reboa. The work is signed bottom right and is presented in a gilt frame.

This painting of roses in a vase against a background of mauve tulips is painted swiftly and with confidence. The colour palette is very well chosen, warm yet vibrant as the touches of sharper green leaf offset the mauve backdrop of tulips and the baby pink petals. The backdrop is reminiscent of the interior paintings of Matisse who often painted his subject against a colourful and lively wallpaper or carpet. This device brings further interest to the painting sometimes offering clashing colours which keeps the eye excited and engaged. In this case, quite cleverly, we have a painting of flowers within a painting of flowers therefore adding to the overall richness of the piece.

The quick dabs of the brush can easily be seen which give texture and an energy to the painting, further enhanced by the half shadow over the subject. The clever use of light and shade gives a robustness and liveliness to the roses. A strong painting which can either work in a tone on tone environment due to its restrained colour palette or stand alone due to its energy of brushstroke and presence.

Dimensions: 56cm x 47cm x 3cm.