Titmice in Birch Trees 1900

Pekka Halonen made this painting, Titmice in Birch Trees, using oil on canvas. The smooth surface of the canvas allowed Halonen to apply the paint in thin layers, creating a sense of depth and luminosity. Halonen carefully built up the image by layering different colors and tones. The white and grey tones capture the texture of snow, and the deep red of the cabin adds warmth to the composition. The fine brushwork used to depict the titmice suggests a skilled tradition rooted in naturalism, reflecting an observation of the landscape. Halonen's choice of materials and the amount of work involved in the production process emphasize the value of skilled labor. By focusing on the beauty of nature and the skill required to capture it on canvas, Halonen elevates the status of craft and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and everyday life.