The Cherry Tree (study) 1891

Berthe Morisot rendered this watercolor study of “The Cherry Tree” with delicate grace. At its heart lies the symbolism of the cherry, a fruit laden with cultural weight, from ancient fertility rites to emblems of paradise. Observe the figures reaching for the cherries; their gestures echo those found in countless depictions of the Fall, or even the Hesperides guarding their golden apples. Yet here, it’s imbued with a lightness, a fleeting moment of innocent pleasure. The act of picking fruit extends beyond mere sustenance, tapping into our collective memory of nature’s abundance, and a primal connection to the earth. This visual vocabulary transcends epochs, manifesting in diverse narratives, each echoing the psychological pull of desire and fulfillment. The cyclical nature of life, and the enduring power of these simple acts.