#15662 Paolo Ricci

The composition presents a still life arranged on a vibrant blue surface, set against a dark, almost black background that recedes into indistinct shadows. The objects are rendered with a deliberate flatness, eschewing traditional perspective in favor of a more conceptual arrangement.
A lantern occupies the left side of the table, its brass construction catching and reflecting light, suggesting an artificial illumination within the otherwise somber setting. Adjacent to it lie two green spheres, their surfaces appearing smooth and slightly reflective, contributing to the overall sense of stillness. To the right, a turquoise vase stands upright, its color providing a striking contrast against the blue tablecloth and darker background.
The most arresting element is the large, bleached-white object that dominates the foreground – it appears to be a nautilus shell, or something resembling one. Its form is elongated and curved, drawing the eye across the composition. The stark whiteness of this object creates a visual tension with the surrounding colors, suggesting fragility and perhaps even decay.
The subdued palette – primarily blues, greens, and blacks – contributes to a mood of quiet contemplation. The lack of depth and the simplified forms suggest an interest in exploring the essence of these objects rather than their realistic representation. One might interpret this arrangement as a meditation on mortality, with the nautilus shell symbolizing impermanence and the lantern representing a fleeting source of light within darkness. The overall effect is one of melancholic beauty, inviting reflection on themes of time, loss, and the transient nature of existence.