Hubert Van de Walle – Illico-Coquelicot-Cocorico, De Hubert Van De Walle

The composition presents a layered still life arranged across multiple tiers of what appears to be a stylized architectural structure – perhaps a series of shelves or platforms. The color palette is dominated by cool blues and greens, punctuated by vibrant bursts of red, orange, and yellow. These hues create a sense of both vibrancy and controlled order.
On the uppermost level, a white ceramic teapot takes prominence, its form echoing the curves of the surrounding fruits – apples, pears, and pineapples – that are clustered around it. Behind this arrangement, foliage is rendered in broad strokes of green and yellow, suggesting an abundant garden or orchard. A single poppy adds a focal point of intense red.
The middle tier features a similar assortment of produce, including artichokes, grapes, and more apples. A white cloth drapes over the edge, softening the rigid geometry of the structure and introducing a sense of domesticity. The placement of objects on this level is slightly offset from the upper tier, creating a visual depth that draws the eye further into the composition.
The lowest level continues the theme of abundance with additional fruits and vegetables, including what appears to be a basket overflowing with produce. A metal pitcher sits at the bottom left corner, its reflective surface mirroring some of the colors above.
The artist’s use of light is noteworthy; it seems diffused and even, illuminating all objects equally without creating strong shadows. This contributes to the paintings overall sense of serenity and abundance. The meticulous rendering of each object – the texture of the fruit, the folds in the cloth, the details of the ceramic ware – suggests a deliberate focus on materiality and form.
Subtly, there’s an element of playful surrealism at work. The arrangement feels staged, almost theatrical, with objects seemingly placed for maximum visual impact rather than representing a natural still life. This artificiality invites contemplation about the constructed nature of perception and the artists deliberate manipulation of reality to create a visually pleasing whole. The repetition of forms – the curves of fruit echoing the teapot’s shape – creates a sense of harmony, while the contrasting colors maintain visual interest.