Henri Biva (1848-1929) - Japanese Still Life

Henri Biva (1848-1929) was a Montmartre-born painter best known for his naturalistic landscapes and scenes of gardens and rivers. He followed the realist and naturalist tradition, paying meticulous attention to the light and details of nature. His works often exude a peaceful, poetic atmosphere, highlighting the nuances of color and the play of light. Biva exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon and was appreciated for the finesse of his rendering.

Our painting depicts an elegant floral arrangement, where a large bouquet of roses and violets occupies the center of the composition, placed in a Japanese-patterned pot set on a copper dish. Next to it, a small bouquet of violets rests in a silver pot, providing a delicate contrast of size and color. On the same table, a decorative fan, also in Japanese style, enriches the scene and adds a touch of the exotic. True to her naturalistic style, Biva plays with light and texture, making the flowers and objects particularly realistic while creating a calm, refined atmosphere.