Édouard Manet
This spray of lilac, as laconic as it is tonally fascinating, is one of a group of still lifes that Manet painted in the last years of his life as he was becoming increasingly ill. Manet’s brush records with simplicity and sensitivity the transient effects of light on the tender pastel colors of the lilac, on the restless texture of the blossoms, and in the independent restlessness of the light refractions in the water. Decades before, he had devoted considerable painterly finesse to simple still lifes. But late works like this one, with its concentration on finely gradated color combinations—blue, green, and brown—and on the meticulously observed materiality of the heavy flower heads, is pure painting, practiced for its own sake and, in its concentration, bearing witness to the wise self-limitation of the mature, older artist.
We are featuring this masterpiece thanks to the Alte Nationalgalerie, where, until 27 September 2026, you can see it in the Cassirer and the Breakthrough of Impressionism exhibition. Paul Cassirer was one of the most important art dealers of his time. Don't miss it if you are in Berlin!
P.S. See how well do you know today's artist in our Édouard Manet Quiz!
P.P.S. Love the beauty of flowers in art? Our Flowers in Art 50 Postcards Set brings together delicate blossoms, vibrant bouquets, and timeless floral masterpieces created by some of the greatest artists in history. A perfect collection for anyone who appreciates the quiet poetry of flowers. :)