02

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Plastic Fruit
(used in introductory language classes) French

Caption
Object Credit


The second juxtaposition of objects asks the viewer to consider the "truth effect" offered by different representational forms. The still life painting is a two-dimensional rendering of fruit that emphasizes surface appearance. The plastic fruit, used by the French department in introductory language classes, reproduces other qualities of the fruit, such as its three-dimensionality.

Another important point here is the contrast between an expensive "high art" object, and valueless "kitsch." Within the confines of the university, both serve equally valuable functions in disseminating knowledge.