Untitled ST

Stavru Tarasov

Description

18,5 x 26,5
Oil on cardboard
It was part of the Kumbetlian collection.

The work by artist Stavru Tarasov depicts a classic subject – a vase of flowers – which is approached in an expressive manner, emphasizing texture and color. Although the work does not have a specific name, the composition and execution offer some interesting details that are worth analyzing. The subject of flowers in a vase is a traditional motif of static nature (the “still life” style), often used to explore the ephemeral beauty of nature and to convey the intimacy of the scene. In this work, the flowers – most likely pansies – are depicted in a semi-impressionistic style, emphasizing their fragility and organic texture.
Cool tones dominate, such as the blue and green of the background, which provide a subtle contrast to the warm shades of purple and yellow in the flower petals. The colors are layered, creating an effect of depth and dimension, typical of painters working in thick paste. The thick, pasty strokes indicate the use of the impasto technique, which adds texture and dynamism to the work. This technique allows each brushstroke to be visible, giving a tactile quality to the painting. The vase and background are treated with fewer details, emphasizing the flowers, which seem to be the focal point of the composition.
The composition is balanced, with the vase placed centrally and the flowers gently “flowing” beyond its boundaries. This approach suggests a combination of order and naturalism.
The background is simplified, so as not to distract from the main subject. Tarasov is known for his paintings that combine realism with expressionist accents, emphasizing emotion and expression over fine details. The present work is representative of his style, which focuses on color, light, and atmosphere. Although it seems simple at first glance, this work captures an atmosphere of calm and contemplation. The flowers seem to be a metaphor for the fragility and beauty of life, and the manner of execution suggests an invitation to introspection.
This still life signed by Stavru Tarasov is an excellent example of art that capitalizes on simplicity to convey depth. Stavru Tarasov (born January 6, 1883, Letea, Tulcea County - died January 18, 1961, Brașov) was a Romanian painter, musician and teacher. Stavru Tarasov, one of the four sons of the priest Mihail Tarasov, had Zaporozhian Cossack origins.

About the artist

Praised by critics and the public, the Romanian painter caught the attention of the City Hall, which commissioned him to make a copy of Fra Angelico’s work, “The Descent from the Cross”.