Zinnias 1891

Henri Fantin-Latour created this still life of Zinnias with oil on canvas. In his paintings, Fantin-Latour masterfully employs traditional methods to create an enduring, romantic allure. The flowers are densely arranged, with an exuberant and colorful presence. The texture of the paint adds depth and vitality to the composition. The application of the oil paint is rich, building up layers to define the petals and leaves with a tangible, tactile quality. Fantin-Latour's use of oil paint demonstrates his technical mastery and understanding of the medium's inherent qualities, like its depth and its reflective qualities that allow the vividness of the colors to shine. The artist's skilled handling of the brush, the layers of paint, and the blending of colors all work together to create a naturalistic, eye-catching effect. The creation of such a painting is a result of the convergence of skilled labor, artistic vision, and material resources. Through the lens of material and making, we can deepen our understanding of Fantin-Latour’s practice and the wider social and cultural contexts in which he operated.