Artwork
The Big Trees
The Big Trees is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
The Big Trees is a 1904 oil painting by Paul Cézanne, depicting a landscape dominated by two large trees in the foreground. Characterized by thick brushstrokes and a palette of browns, greens, yellows, and blues, the work exemplifies Cézanne's post-Impressionist style.
Subject & Meaning
The painting focuses on the structural presence of the two trees, using color and shading to convey depth, atmosphere, and volume. The deliberate contrast between lighter and darker sides of the trees suggests a play of light and shadow, enhancing their three-dimensionality.
Technique & Style
Cézanne employed thick, expressive brushstrokes and a muted yet expressive color scheme to move beyond Impressionism's emphasis on fleeting light effects. Instead, he emphasized geometric and structural interpretations of natural forms, bridging towards early Cubist principles.
History & Provenance
Created in 1904, The Big Trees is now part of the Scottish National Gallery's collection, reflecting its significance within Cézanne's oeuvre and post-Impressionist art movements.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Paul Cézanne ( say-ZAN, UK also siz-AN, US also say-ZAHN; French: ; Occitan: Pau Cesana; 19 January 1839 – 22 October 1906) was a French Post-Impressionist painter whose work introduced new modes of representation,…
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