Still Life, 1638
Pieter Claesz
The 17th-century Dutch viewer would have recognized this softly illuminated still life as a representation of wealth and prosperity. The artist demonstrates his skill at depicting the various textures and reflections on the surfaces of these luxury items: a half-filled wine vessel; a silver or pewter platter and overturned cup-on-stand; a small, Chinese porcelain bowl; and a lemon, with its elegantly spiraling peel. In the porcelain bowl are wild strawberries, a delicacy typically enjoyed with French wine. The recent and seemingly abrupt departure of the person enjoying this light meal suggests the theme of vanitas, reminding us of the fleeting nature of all wealth and pleasure in our mortal state.
Maverick Mist 
Gorgeous
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Merci 🙂
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A beautifully elegant still life. Perfect lighting and subtle glow.
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Exactly Holly. 🙂
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I am always amazed by paintings like this because everything you see, shapes, fabric folds, textures, everything is based on the artist’s representation of light.
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I agree and I imagine a lot of patience is needed.
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I love this light, textures and shapes in this. Very soft — and strong.
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Thanks, I totally agree. 🙂
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The light makes it look like a photograph. The description makes it more meaningful.
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The lighting was just perfect on this I thought.
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