Raoul (Raphael) Martinez | Cuba
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untitled, 1939
oil on canvas, 63x60cmMartinez demonstrates his expert way of handling perspective. We obtain an unusual, bird’s eye yet slanted view of this elaborate still life painting. The composition is tilted to such an extent that some objects are positioned on the very edge of the table; the decorative blue cloth is draped over the side, the lemon is about to roll off and the cigarettes look as though they are sliding towards the viewer. In addition to perspective alterations Martinez simplified his subject by creating strong rational volumes that seem plastic in appearance rather than textured. The plastic finish could be owed to its stylistic similarities to the Art Deco movement, as characteristic clean lines are prevalent throughout the painting. The cool and crisp palette gives the work a modern finish.