Stillleben (1910)

"Stillleben" (1910) by Alexej von Jawlensky captures a vivid arrangement of everyday objects in a unique and striking composition. This still life composition exhibits Jawlensky's transformation from conventional representation to a more expressive style which characterizes his later works.In the painting, bold colors dominate, with a prominent display of deep blues, fiery reds, and glowing yellows, suggesting both texture and form while even imparting emotional content. The painting presents a jug and fruit—elements typically found in traditional still lifes—but Jawlensky's approach is anything but traditional. The objects are rendered in simplified forms, almost abstract, with the vibrant colors swirling around them, emphasizing their presence against the darkened background.At the top left corner of the painting, what appears to be a small, stylized landscape or figural representation contributes an additional layer of depth and intrigue. This insertion deviates from regular still life expectations and is indicative of Jawlensky's involvement with the metaphorical and spiritual in art, signifying his step towards abstraction.This piece, both impactful and intimate, offers a glimpse into the evolution of Jawlensky's art from representational to expressive forms, making it a vital work for those interested in the developments of early 20th-century abstraction.