In this delightful still life, a crystal-clear glass carafe stands proud, partially filled with water that reflects soft light and refracts the vivid colors surrounding it. The carafe is flanked by a simple white plate holding an assortment of citrus fruits—berries of oranges and a cascade of lemons. Textured strokes render the lemons in vibrant yellows with hints of brown, suggesting their ripeness and adding warmth to the composition. The contrasting oranges, with their fiery hue, burst forth against a backdrop of abstract patterns in reds and light beige; these patterns evoke a sense of intimacy and domesticity.

The colors harmonize beautifully, and the balance between the objects intrigues the observer—the roundness of fruit complements the sleek geometry of the carafe. Van Gogh's brushwork is expressive; the lively movements invite us into the scene, making us feel the soft texture of the lemons and the coolness of the glass. This piece, painted in 1887, reveals Van Gogh's fascination with everyday objects and his ability to evoke emotion through color and composition, exemplifying his developing style and his extraordinary talent for transforming the mundane into striking visual poetry.