Three Pears (Trois poires), ca. 1888–90

Watercolor, gouache, and graphite
L.1988.62.32
Three Pears (Trois poires)

Interpretation

This vibrant still life was exhibited in Cézanne’s first solo exhibition, held in November 1895 at Ambroise Vollard’s gallery in Paris,
where it attracted the interest of the painters Edgar Degas and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. No doubt enticed by the work’s intense
color and sensuality, the two artists entered a bidding match from which Degas emerged the victor—after lots were drawn to resolve the matter.

Information

Title
Three Pears (Trois poires)
Object Number
L.1988.62.32
Maker
Paul Cézanne
Medium
Watercolor, gouache, and graphite
Dates
ca. 1888–90
Dimensions
24.2 x 31 cm. (9 1/2 x 12 3/16 in.)
Catalog Raisonné
Rewald (1983) 298 Venturi (1936) 1136
Credit Line
The Henry and Rose Pearlman Foundation on loan since 1976 to the Princeton University Art Museum
Culture
French
European
Type
Materials

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