Ber nard Buffet once described flowers as follows:"Flowers⋯are woven into our lives with every twist and turn of emotional events. Scarcely born, before we’re even aware of it, we inhale the subtle scents of bouquets offered to the woman who

brought us into the world."

In this still-life painting "Ombelles dans un vase", Buffet presents a distinct yet somewhat melancholic style, reflecting the existential mood of the post-war era. The shapes of the flowers and the brushstrokes of the vase are sharp and precise, with dark outline lines that create a resolute and almost austere appearance. The yellow hues are soft, symbolizing

hope, yet upon closer inspection, there is still a sense of detachment and aloofness. Unlike the delicate beauty of traditional floral paintings, Buffet's approach is more straightforward and minimalist,focusing on from and structure rather than lushness

and exuberance. The umbrella-shaped flowers and triangular vase create a striking contrast, resulting in a dramatic effect. Buffet's creations resonate with the expressive atmosphere of the era, emphasizing raw emotion while deliberately avoiding excessive idealization. His flowers, standing tall with an aloof demeanor, appear to be frozen in time, exuding a breathtaking fragrance.