Still life with berries and mushrooms Hans Zatzka (1859-1945)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a woven basket overflowing with natural abundance. A generous cluster of ripe raspberries occupies the upper left quadrant, their vibrant red hue contrasting sharply with the darker tones dominating the central focus. Beside them, in a clear glass vessel, more berries are visible, suggesting an ongoing harvest or collection.
The basket itself is densely packed; it holds dark purple berries – likely blueberries or huckleberries – interspersed with pink blossoms and verdant foliage. The arrangement spills outwards, creating a sense of overflowing richness. A cascade of ferns and other greenery drapes the sides of the basket, softening its rigid form and contributing to an overall feeling of organic growth.
At the base of the composition, a scattering of chanterelle mushrooms lies amongst sprigs of evergreen foliage. The warm yellow-orange tones of the fungi provide another visual counterpoint to the cooler blues and reds elsewhere in the scene. A single butterfly rests on the tablecloth near the glass vessel, adding a touch of fleeting beauty and suggesting an outdoor setting.
The surface upon which these objects rest is draped with a white linen cloth, its folds meticulously rendered to capture the play of light and shadow. The background consists of a dark wooden paneling, partially obscured by the foreground elements, creating depth and focusing attention on the still life itself.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of natural forms, the painting evokes themes of abundance, transience, and the cyclical nature of seasons. The presence of both ripe berries and mushrooms – representing different stages of growth and decay – hints at a meditation on mortality and the ephemeral quality of beauty. The butterfly’s inclusion further reinforces this sense of fleeting existence. The meticulous detail in rendering each element suggests an appreciation for the inherent value and complexity found within the natural world, while the overall arrangement conveys a feeling of quiet domesticity and contemplative observation.