Musical instruments and statuette Evaristo Baschenis (1617-1677)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around musical instruments and a classical sculpture, enveloped in a dramatic chiaroscuro lighting scheme. A heavy curtain dominates the upper portion of the canvas, its ornate gold pattern contrasting with the deep shadows that permeate the scene. From the curtain’s folds hang decorative tassels, adding to the sense of theatricality.
The foreground is populated by an array of instruments: a harp, a lute, and a large drum are prominently displayed. A sheet of music lies near the base of the harp, suggesting recent use or abandonment. The meticulous rendering of each instrument highlights their craftsmanship; the wood grain, strings, and metal fittings are all rendered with considerable detail.
To the left, a marble statuette of a male figure stands poised in a contrapposto stance. His body is idealized, referencing classical sculpture traditions. He appears to be leaning against the harp, creating a visual link between music and the human form. The statue’s pale skin contrasts sharply with the dark background, further emphasizing its presence.
The artist employed a limited palette of browns, reds, and golds, intensifying the dramatic effect of light and shadow. This technique directs the viewers attention to specific elements within the composition while obscuring others in darkness.
Subtleties within the arrangement suggest deeper meanings. The discarded sheet music might allude to fleeting inspiration or the ephemeral nature of artistic creation. The presence of classical sculpture, a symbol of antiquity and idealized beauty, could represent a longing for a lost golden age or an exploration of timeless themes. The overall atmosphere evokes a sense of melancholy and introspection, hinting at the passage of time and the fragility of human endeavors. The arrangement feels staged, almost as if capturing a moment frozen in time – a tableau vivant rather than a straightforward depiction of objects.