Tony Scherman (1950-2023) is one of the most collected and cherished Canadian artists. He is renowned internationally for his work in encaustic (a mix of wax and oil, one of the most difficult mediums to work in).

Scherman frequently alludes to the grandeur of past centuries, both in his subject matter and by his choice of painting with encaustic. The artist is continuing a tradition, of working with this material, that has been propelled through art history by a diverse number of canonical artists including Pieter Claesz, Caravaggio, and Cézanne.

Still lifes are one of Scherman's signature motifs. He has repeatedly depicted them on canvas, on paper, and in graphics.

This luminous depiction of a fruit and flower arrangement serves as a fantastic example of Scherman's signature aesthetic and technique. Through rich, textured layers of brushwork and delicate licks of color, Scherman expertly depicts a group of downward-facing peonies and a trio of oranges, illuminated by a single and direct light source.

Like this piece, many of Scherman's works from the turn of the millennium have this strikingly dark background, evocative of chiaroscuro.

Scherman’s work can be found in nearly every public collection in Canada, as well as many international museums including LACMA (Los Angeles) and Centre Pompidou (Paris)

Condition: very good