Stillleben mit Äpfeln, Putto und Pferdchen (1919)

** Anton Faistauer, an influential figure in Austrian painting during the early 20th century, created this exuberant still life in 1919. Known for his unique approach to color and form, Faistauer’s work often blurs the lines between expressionism and more traditional techniques."Stillleben mit Äpfeln, Putto und Pferdchen" beautifully encapsulates Faistauer's style and artistic philosophy. In this painting, he harmonizes seemingly disparate elements to create a cohesive and visually arresting composition. The canvas features a rich array of colors and textures, ranging from the vivid reds and yellows of the apples to the dynamic strokes that define the putto and the little horse.At the forefront, the apples are rendered with lush, tactile brushstrokes, their vibrant hues popping against the more subdued background. Slightly behind these fruits, a putto—a cherubic figure often featured in European art—lies playfully amidst the apples, adding an element of whimsy and mythological reference. Adjacent to this, a sculptural representation of a horse stands, providing a contrast in form and color, its rustic red tones echoing traditional folk motifs.Faistauer's brushwork is loose and expressive throughout, adding a sense of motion and liveliness. This painting not only showcases his skill as a colorist but also reflects his ability to infuse traditional still life with animation and depth, moving beyond mere representation to evoke a story-like tableau that invites viewers into a timeless world of beauty and imagination.