Louise Moillon – The fruit and vegetable seller Part 2 Louvre

The composition presents a domestic scene centered around a market stall laden with produce. A woman in elaborate attire stands on the left, engaged in a transaction with another woman who appears to be the vendor. The first woman holds an apricot, examining it closely; her gaze is direct and somewhat detached, suggesting a customer of means. Her clothing – the high collar, the rich fabric – clearly marks her as belonging to a higher social stratum than the vendor.
The vendor, positioned on the right, offers a basket overflowing with fruit. She wears a simple white cap and dress, indicative of her working-class status. Her expression is attentive, almost deferential, as she presents the goods. The arrangement of produce dominates the foreground: grapes cascade from a bowl, plums are piled in a wicker basket, and various vegetables – cabbages, squashes, artichokes – are arranged with careful attention to detail. A cat sits near the edge of the table, adding a touch of domesticity and life to the scene.
The background is darker, suggesting an interior space or a shadowed area beyond the stall. Shelves are visible, holding additional baskets and foodstuffs, further emphasizing the abundance of goods available. The lighting is carefully controlled; it highlights the textures of the fruit and vegetables, creating a sense of realism and tactile quality.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a market exchange, the painting seems to explore themes of social hierarchy and economic interaction. The contrast in dress and demeanor between the two women underscores the differences in their respective positions within society. The meticulous rendering of the produce – its color, form, and texture – suggests an appreciation for earthly pleasures and the bounty of nature. It is possible that the artist intended to convey a commentary on the relationship between wealth and sustenance, or perhaps simply to celebrate the everyday rituals of commerce and domestic life. The inclusion of the cat introduces a subtle element of playfulness and reinforces the sense of a lived-in, familiar environment.