Flegel, George. Still life with flowers and snacks Hermitage ~ part 12

The composition presents a meticulously arranged still life, dominated by a central floral arrangement and complemented by various foodstuffs. The dark background serves to heighten the contrast with the brightly rendered objects, drawing immediate attention to their textures and forms.

Here we see a lavish display of perishable goods: a roasted fowl rests on a darkened plate, alongside a bowl brimming with olives, a cluster of cherries presented in an ornate glass dish, and a platter piled high with leafy greens. The inclusion of these items suggests abundance and prosperity, yet the inherent transience of food also introduces a subtle undercurrent of melancholy – a reminder of decay and the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures.

The floral arrangement is particularly striking. A large yellow lily commands attention at the apex of the composition, its vibrant color contrasting with the more muted tones of the surrounding blossoms. The flowers are not simply depicted; they appear to be actively spilling out from their container, creating a sense of overflowing vitality. This abundance mirrors the richness of the food display, reinforcing the theme of lavishness.

The artist’s attention to detail is remarkable. Each object – from the individual leaves on the greens to the delicate petals of the flowers – is rendered with precision and care. The play of light across surfaces creates a convincing illusion of three-dimensionality, enhancing the tactile quality of the scene.

Beyond the surface representation of abundance, the painting may be interpreted as an memento mori, a reminder of mortality. The presence of decaying food alongside vibrant flowers subtly suggests the inevitability of decline and the passage of time. The careful arrangement and detailed rendering could also be seen as an attempt to capture and preserve beauty in the face of its impermanence, elevating the mundane into something worthy of contemplation.

The inclusion of a small, rectangular object – possibly an hourglass – positioned near the fowl further reinforces this thematic layer. Its presence introduces a direct visual symbol of time’s relentless march forward, subtly prompting reflection on the ephemeral nature of existence and the fleeting enjoyment of earthly delights.