A Still Life of Roses 1931

Samuel Peploe created this still life of roses in Scotland, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, using oil on canvas. The arrangement offers a glimpse into the intimate life of the artist, showcasing not only his aesthetic sensibility but also the cultural values of the time. Peploe's still life can be viewed within the context of the Scottish Colourists movement, who were influenced by French Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. The painting's bright colors and simplified forms were considered progressive for the time, a departure from the more traditional, academic styles. The presence of roses, a vase, and a cup and saucer, rendered with expressive brushstrokes, evoke the bourgeois lifestyle. To fully appreciate Peploe’s artistic contribution, one might consult exhibition catalogs from the period, reviews, and even personal letters to understand how art institutions and cultural gatekeepers shaped the reception of his work.