Bouquet de fleurs by Moïse Kisling

Moïse Kisling 1891-1953 | Polish-French Bouquet de fleurs (Bouquet of Flowers) Signed “Kisling” (lower right) Oil on canvas Moïse Kisling’s Bouquet de fleurs is a striking testament to the artist’s mastery of color and composition. This vibrant still life showcases a symphony of red, yellow and lilac blooms, their rich hues heightened by the interplay of light and shadow. Nestled within lush green leaves, the blossoms exude a dynamic energy, their harmonious arrangement displaying an artful symmetry within a white and pink vase. Set against a bold gray wall, the background offers a stark contrast to the organic vitality of the bouquet. An intriguing window in the distance leads the eye toward the sky, adding depth and mystery to the scene. The juxtaposition of structured space and expressive florals reflects Kisling’s modernist sensibilities, drawing inspiration from the strong forms of Expressionism and Surrealism as well as the delicate beauty of nature. Moïse Kisling was an important Polish-born French painter who became a significant figure in early 20th-century modern art, especially associated with the School of Paris, a group of international artists who made Paris the epicenter of creative activity. Kisling moved to Paris in 1910, where he interacted with key artists of the time, including Amedeo Modigliani, Pablo Picasso and Jules Pascin, gaining prominence for his striking style. Kisling’s works are recognized for their emotional depth and luminosity, and this still life is no exception. Today many of Kisling's paintings are held in prestigious public collections, including the Harvard Art Museums, the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Marc Ottavi has confirmed the authenticity of this work. Circa 1930 Canvas: 21 1/8" high x 14 5/8" wide (53.66 x 37.15 cm) Frame: 30 3/8" high x 23 3/4" wide x 3 1/4" deep (77.15 x 60.33 x 8.26 cm) Provenance: Galerie Moos, Geneva, no. 4893 (label verso) Private collection, Belgium M.S. Rau, New Orleans