The striking, non-naturalistic colours of the tree in Avond (Evening): The Red Tree immediately catch the eye. Simplified tones of red and blue shape an expressionist representation of an apple tree, with branches that spread wide across the canvas. While still a clearly representational form, Mondrian’s early inclination toward abstraction of colour is undeniable. This Neo-Impressionistic piece stands as one of his earliest, marking an important period as he first implemented a distinct palette of red, blue, and yellow—the three primary colours. It’s fascinating to view this artwork as a crucial stepping stone in his development, transitioning from his initial pastoral landscapes toward his later Neo-plasticism. The work suggests Mondrian was already using nature to explore a complex equilibrium between harsh motion and quiet stillness. The simplified design and almost stark colours hint at the radical shifts that would define his future, leaving one to ponder the fundamental balance he sought to achieve.