Cabbages 1885

Curator: The Harvard Art Museums hold this lovely oil on canvas, “Cabbages,” by Joseph Smith. It measures about 33 by 78 centimeters. What’s your first impression? Editor: Immediately, I see a quiet, almost secretive space. The cabbages are rendered with such subtle color variations that they feel like hidden treasures. Curator: It’s interesting how Smith elevates something so ordinary. Cabbages aren't exactly classical subjects, yet they become almost monumental here, don't they? Editor: Yes, there’s a subtle symbolism, too. The cabbage, often associated with sustenance and growth, hints at life’s cyclical nature. They're like visual metaphors. Curator: Absolutely, and the loose brushwork and soft palette contribute to a dreamlike atmosphere. One can almost feel the moist earth and the gentle sun on the leaves. Editor: The painting does evoke a sense of nostalgia, doesn't it? It reminds us of the simple beauty found in nature's bounty, so often overlooked. Curator: Indeed, a serene meditation on the everyday.