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Still Life

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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A tempting pyramid of exotic foods stands out against the dark background of Jan Davidsz. de Heem’s sensuous painting, evoking delectable flavours and scents. At the base, three fleshy oysters curled up in their shells are placed in a triangle, echoing the pyramid form. A single, half-full glass of red wine makes the apex, the reflection of a window glittering on one side.

The blue bindweed is a spring flower, certainly not in bloom when either cherries or wheat are ripening. Although the picture looks real, it’s an imaginary composition painted from sketches and created to celebrate the abundance of nature, the passing of the seasons and the prosperity of the Dutch nation, where such luxuries were being brought in from abroad by merchant ships.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

Still Life

Date

about 1664-5

Medium

Oil on oak

Measurements

H 33.7 x W 24.2 cm

Accession number

NG2582

Acquisition method

Salting Bequest, 1910

Work type

Painting

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Normally on display at

The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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