Fernando Martínez Checa (1858–1933) ‘Vase with Flowers’, 1900

Oil on canvas. Vertical still life. The central motif is a spherical glass vase in shades of dark green, decorated with gilded botanical motifs and featuring an elongated handle and cylindrical neck of the same gilded material. From within the vase emerges a lush bouquet of chrysanthemums in shades of white, yellow, and crimson red, intertwined with large inflorescences of pale violet lilacs that rise towards the top. At the base of the composition, a solitary white flower and its stem rest on a velvety red doily that adds warmth to the scene. The background is completely dark and neutral, executed with soft brushstrokes that create a strong chiaroscuro, highlighting the vibrant colors of the petals, the metallic sheen of the vase, and the texture of the fabric below. Signed and dated "M. Checa/1900" in the lower left corner.

Size: 93 x 41 cm; Size with frame: 109 x 57 cmm