Menu du Gras et ustensil de cuisine Jean Baptiste Siméon Chardin (1699-1779)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around culinary themes and domesticity. A dark, undefined background allows the objects in the foreground to emerge with considerable visual weight. The artist has arranged these items on a roughly hewn wooden surface, which serves as the primary plane of interaction for the depicted elements.
A prominent feature is the hanging strip of cured meat – likely bacon or ham – draped over what appears to be a kitchen utensil rack. Its vibrant red-orange hue provides a striking contrast against the muted tones dominating the rest of the scene. The metal rack itself, with its circular form and visible wear, suggests repeated use and familiarity. A long, slender tool, possibly a skewer or meat thermometer, is casually looped over the rack, adding to the sense of everyday functionality.
To the right, a ceramic jar, mottled in dark greens and browns, stands alongside a partially obscured glass bottle. The jar’s substantial form and textured surface suggest durability and storage capacity. A scattering of small, red berries – perhaps cranberries or currants – are clustered near the base of the jar, introducing a touch of color and hinting at seasonal abundance.
On the left side of the composition, a wooden mallet rests upon an open book. The book’s presence introduces a layer of intellectualism or perhaps alludes to recipes or culinary instruction. A length of twine lies beside the mallet, further reinforcing the impression of domestic activity. A small, white porcelain container sits near the mallet, its purpose ambiguous but contributing to the overall sense of collected objects.
The lighting is dramatic and directional, emphasizing the textures and forms of the objects while casting deep shadows that contribute to a somber mood. The artist’s brushwork appears loose and expressive, particularly in the rendering of the meat and the jar, conveying a tactile quality.
Subtly, the arrangement suggests themes of sustenance, labor, and domesticity. The presence of both raw ingredients (the meat, berries) and tools implies preparation and transformation. The book introduces an element of knowledge or tradition associated with food. Overall, the painting evokes a sense of quiet contemplation on the rituals and necessities of daily life.