Bouquet of Flowers by Eva Gonzalès - c. 1873–1874 - 27.5 x 35.2 cm private collection Bouquet of Flowers by Eva Gonzalès - c. 1873–1874 - 27.5 x 35.2 cm private collection

Bouquet of Flowers

Oil on canvas • 27.5 x 35.2 cm

  • Eva Gonzalès - April 19, 1849 - May 6, 1883 Eva Gonzalès

    c. 1873–1874

Painted at the dawn of Impressionism, Eva Gonzalès' floral bouquet presents a fresh interpretation of the still-life tradition. Still wrapped in protective florist's paper, the bouquet appears to have been casually set down on a table, with a few blossoms slipping free and scattering across the surface. The arrangement suggests a fleeting, regular moment—as though the recipient has paused only briefly before searching for a vase. By capturing this sense of spontaneity, Gonzalès embraces qualities that lie at the heart of Impressionist painting.

The painting also reveals the influence of Gonzalès' mentor, Édouard Manet, particularly in its bold tonal contrasts. The wrapped bouquet recalls the flowers prominently featured in Manet's Olympia.

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P.P.S. Explore more art by Eva Gonzalès!