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 the technique of encaustic painting. 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 subjects. "Baptism of Bacchus" serves as a fantastic example of his signature aesthetic and masterly technique. The title of this painting alludes to the mythical rebirth of the Roman god Bacchus, a patron of the arts and guardian of agriculture, wine, and fertility. Throughout history, Bacchus has been depicted with grapes, a symbol of ecstasy, celebration, and abundance.
Grapes frequently appeared in both Dutch and Italian still lifes in the 16th and 17th centuries and beyond. Richly symbolic they can symbolize debauchery and excess yet they can also be allusions to fertility and salvation. Scherman's specific title indicates the paintings temperament.
Through rich, textured layers of brushwork, Scherman expertly portrays a lustrous arrangement of delicate rose grapes that fill the vertical plane of the canvas. The cluster is illuminated by a single and direct light source that is further intensified by Scherman's signature midnight 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).
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"Baptism of Bacchus"
Canada, 2017-2018
Encaustic on canvas
Signed, titled, and dated by the artist with annotations, verso
16"H 12"W (work)
Very good condition
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