Still Life with Books and Candle 1890

Henri Matisse's "Still Life with Books and Candle" (1890) is a classic example of the artist's early style. It depicts a simple, everyday scene—a stack of books, a newspaper, and a lit candle—rendered in a realistic manner with subtle brushstrokes. This work reflects Matisse's exploration of light and shadow, as well as his interest in the interplay of textures. The composition is balanced and harmonious, with a focus on the details of the objects and the interplay of light and shadow. The work is a testament to the beauty and power of the everyday, demonstrating Matisse's talent for finding beauty in the ordinary.