“Viewers of this image are often surprised and question how the pears appear to be so white, since these fruits do have varying degrees of color to them. In fact the items I photographed were ceramic replicas of the fruit. My daughter-in-law had purchased a group of these accurately shaped ceramics and generously gave one to me upon my asking for it. While holding the ceramic pear in my hand to admire its beauty, I thought about taking a photograph of it. I looked about my house and found a simple wooden bowl to use as a background, but the combination did not satisfy. Remembering that my daughter-in-law had bought several of these ceramics, I asked her for another one, but she objected and suggested I borrow one only. I chose the second pear for being the right size and shape to sit harmoniously next to mine in the dark wooden bowl. This still-life arrangement pleased me and many others who have seen the photograph. When I gave my daughter-in-law a finished print of "Two Pears” she was especially pleased.”
~ Paul Caponigro
I see pure perfection, a unity of form, an exquisite physical and emotional balance. It is a still life, but so far from being “still”. In fact, it radiates energy and strength. It is impossible to resist its seductive power. Why is this? It is the sheer equilibrium of the black and white palette that gives it this majestic influence, not unlike a great Dutch Masters painting.
