206. Bertina Lopes (Mozambique 1924-2012) Flowers 1971 signed and dated "Bertina Lopes "1971" on the reverse; poster for the "Bertina Lopes" exhibition at the Galerie des Expositions Temporaires, 1972, taped to the reverse oil on canvas 59 x 119,5cm. 23 1/4 x 46 7/8in. Provenance Private collection, Italy. Bertina Lopes' floral compositions explore a unique balance between dark tones and bursts of vivid colour. Originally from Cape Verde, the artist's palette delves into the complexity of human emotions. The subtle shades of deep purple and midnight blue in the work presented here add a dimension of duality to the work, suggesting that beauty can emerge from darkness. The bright green leaves create a contrast, while luminous touches, like dewdrops, add a touch of magic to the whole. Her bouquets, with petals bursting into multiple sprays of paint, go beyond the simple representation of flowers; they capture a range of complex emotions. Each canvas seems to tell a story, each nuance evokes a feeling, creating works that reveal the depth of artistic expression through nature.