Apples & Chestnuts - Oil pastel - Shikishi art by Clotilde Aksin-Frappier
Clotilde Aksin-Frappier’s oil pastel still life on shikishi presents a rich composition of seasonal fruits and nuts—a green apple, a golden-hued apple, and glossy chestnuts—resting on deep purple fabric. The contrast between the vibrant tones of the apples and the warm brown of the chestnuts against the textured drapery creates a striking visual balance, emphasizing the natural forms and textures of the composition.
Oil Pastel on Shikishi – Technique and Texture
This piece is created using oil pastels, a medium that blends pigments with wax and oil for a smooth, blendable application. Unlike dry pastels, oil pastels allow for soft color transitions, making them ideal for capturing the subtle interplay of light and shadow on the fruit and nuts.
The choice of shikishi, a traditional Japanese art board, enhances the artwork’s texture, providing a firm yet slightly absorbent surface that interacts beautifully with the oil pastel layers. Through precise blending and layering, Aksin-Frappier creates a sense of volume, highlighting the organic shapes of the apples and chestnuts. The deep purple backdrop further enriches the scene, offering a strong contrast that enhances the luminosity of the fruit.
Still Life in Art – A Classic Subject
Still life painting has a long tradition in both Western and Eastern art, often symbolizing abundance, transience, or the beauty of everyday objects. In this work, Aksin-Frappier captures the essence of classical still life composition, using careful color relationships and light manipulation to emphasize the textures and natural beauty of the subjects. The balance between warm apple tones and the rich brown of the chestnuts, set against the cool folds of the drapery, adds depth to the composition.
The artist’s approach reflects an appreciation for natural forms and materiality, transforming simple fruit arrangements into a visually engaging study of color and texture. The use of shikishi introduces an East-West fusion, combining Japanese artistic tradition with a European still life aesthetic.
Collecting Oil Pastel Still Life Art
Oil pastels are highly valued for their rich pigmentation and expressive texture. Clotilde Aksin-Frappier’s still life paintings are particularly sought after for their vibrant color harmonies and attention to detail. This piece is an excellent choice for collectors interested in contemporary oil pastel art, still life compositions, and works on shikishi.
For those who appreciate fine art still life, this painting demonstrates the versatility of oil pastels, offering depth, warmth, and an intimate portrayal of natural elements.
Details and Dimensions
Title in French : "Pommes et châtaignes".
Original one-of-a-kind artwork by Clotilde Aksin-Frappier.
Traditional Shikishi made in Kyoto - Japanese paper mounted on a cardoard with a golden border of metallic paper.
Oil Pastel.
Size : 24cm x 27cm (9.4 x 10.6 inches)
Signed and dated 2024.
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Tax & Customs Information
Art San Gallery ensures that original artworks are shipped under Harmonized Tariff Codes 9701 (paintings, drawings, pastels) and 9703 (sculptures). Some countries do not charge import duties or VAT on these items, allowing for straightforward customs clearance without additional fees. Others may apply a reduced VAT rate for original artworks. Your purchase will be correctly classified to support a smooth delivery process.
Depending on the artwork, your order may be shipped either from France or from our gallery in Japan. For customers in the European Union (EU), shipments from France generally follow standard intra-European trade rules and may involve fewer customs formalities. Shipments from Japan, however, are treated as imports and may be subject to customs duties and VAT according to your local regulations. To help you plan your order with confidence, the shipping origin is indicated on each product page.
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Return Policy
Return requests for original artworks (one-of-a-kind pieces) must be submitted within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of delivery. Return requests received outside of this period will unfortunately not be accepted.
The return shipment must include the original Certificate of Authenticity provided with the order. Customers are responsible for all return shipping costs.
Refunds will be issued once the returned artwork has been received and inspected to ensure it is in its original condition.
Please note that returns cannot be accepted for any artwork that has been stretched, cropped, or otherwise altered after purchase.
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Shipping
We Offer Free Worldwide Shipping
Artworks and curated products are shipped via premium courier services, either from Japan or France, depending on the item's location. The shipping origin is specified on each product page.
From Japan (via EMS – Japan Post Express Mail Service or UPS)
To Japan (domestic): 1–3 business days
To Asia and Oceania: 3–6 business days
To the EU / USA / Canada: 5–7 business days
To South America / Africa: 7–14 business days
From France (via Chronopost, UPS, or equivalent express courier)
To the EU: 3–5 business days
To the USA / Canada: 5–10 business days
To Asia / Oceania: 7–10 business days
To South America / Africa: 7–14 business days
Delivery times may vary slightly due to customs clearance procedures or public holidays. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
