Gelder, Nicolaes van – Stilleven, 1664 Rijksmuseum: part 2

The composition presents a meticulously arranged still life, dominated by a rich palette of reds, golds, and deep browns. A heavily draped curtain forms a dark backdrop, its folds catching the light in a way that creates depth and obscures what lies beyond. The fabric’s texture is rendered with considerable detail, contributing to the overall sense of opulence.

Arranged on a patterned tablecloth are various objects, primarily foodstuffs and decorative vessels. A large, ornate silver goblet takes center stage, positioned within a woven basket overflowing with fruit – grapes, peaches, and other unidentified varieties. The arrangement suggests abundance and prosperity. Scattered around the base of the basket are loose grapes, adding to the impression of casual luxury.

To the left, a dark glass vase holds a single bloom, its petals rendered in delicate detail. A cluster of roses lies nearby, their vibrant pink contrasting with the darker tones surrounding them. To the right, a blue and white ceramic pitcher sits alongside additional fruit, further reinforcing the theme of plenty.

A lobster shell, placed prominently on the table near the pitcher, introduces an element that complicates the straightforward interpretation of abundance. The presence of discarded crustacean shells often carries symbolic weight in still life paintings – it can signify transience, decay, and the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures, a memento mori reminder within the context of material wealth.

The light source appears to originate from the left side of the composition, illuminating certain objects while leaving others shrouded in shadow. This careful manipulation of light enhances the three-dimensionality of the scene and draws attention to specific details. The artist’s skill is evident in the rendering of textures – the sheen of the silver, the softness of the fabric, the plumpness of the fruit, and the delicate petals of the flowers.

The overall effect is one of controlled elegance and subtle complexity. While celebrating material abundance, the inclusion of the lobster shell hints at a deeper meditation on mortality and the ephemeral nature of worldly possessions.