About this artwork

Nicholson was exceptionally good at rendering the specific qualities of materials. Lead, pewter, tin and glazed ceramic vessels feature prominently in his many still-lifes and are given their own particular lustre. The skilful depiction of light on the bowl in this painting can be compared to the work of the Spanish artist Velázquez, whom Nicholson greatly admired. Nicholson reduced the still life motif to its basic ingredients. This tendency had a strong influence on his son Ben Nicholson, the abstract artist.

Updated before 2020

  • artist:
  • title:
    The Lustre Bowl with Green Peas
  • date created:
    1911
  • materials:
    Oil on canvas
  • measurements:
    55.00 x 60.00 cm; Framed: 81.80 x 87.00 x 7.50 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    Bequeathed by Sir Alexander Maitland with life interest to Colonel Peter Dunphie. Presented by Colonel Dunphie 1997
  • accession number:
    GMA 4103
  • gallery:
  • subject:
  • artwork photographed by:
    Antonia Reeve
Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Tell us what you think.

Sir William Nicholson

Sir William Nicholson