Still life with a candle Ivan Hrutsky (1810-1885)

The composition presents a carefully arranged assortment of objects on a tabletop, bathed in a warm, subdued light emanating primarily from a single candle. A glass filled with water sits near the left edge, reflecting the ambient glow and contributing to the overall sense of quiet illumination. Adjacent to it are various fruits – oranges, peaches, grapes – displayed within and around a woven basket. The abundance suggests prosperity and harvest.
A silver pitcher, intricately decorated with relief work, dominates the central space. Its reflective surface picks up the light, adding depth and complexity to the scene. To its right, a small wooden box holds more fruit, further reinforcing the theme of plenty. A single candlestick supports a burning candle, which serves as both a source of light and a symbolic element representing transience and mortality.
Draped fabric forms a backdrop, partially obscuring what appears to be a wall or architectural feature. The folds in the cloth are rendered with considerable detail, demonstrating an attention to texture and form. Scattered across the table are several loose nuts and a single silver spoon, adding a touch of casualness to the otherwise formal arrangement.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – ochres, browns, yellows – creating a sense of intimacy and tranquility. The limited range of colors contributes to the painting’s somber mood. The artists meticulous rendering of textures – the smoothness of the glass, the roughness of the basket weave, the sheen of the silver – invites close observation.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of everyday objects, the arrangement carries potential subtexts related to the fleeting nature of beauty and abundance. The candle’s diminishing flame serves as a memento mori – a reminder of mortality – while the perishable fruits symbolize the ephemeral quality of earthly pleasures. The careful placement and lighting suggest an appreciation for the simple joys of life, but also acknowledge their impermanence.