#55393 Belgium

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a woven basket overflowing with blossoms and accompanied by scattered fruit on a stone ledge. The dark background creates a stark contrast, directing attention towards the objects in the foreground.
Here we see a profusion of flowers – lilies, roses, poppies, and other varieties – arranged within the basket. Their colors range from vibrant reds and oranges to softer pinks and whites, creating a visually rich tapestry. The artist has rendered each bloom with considerable detail, capturing their delicate textures and forms. Some petals appear slightly wilted or damaged, suggesting the transient nature of beauty.
Alongside the basket, several pieces of fruit are scattered across the ledge: plums, peaches, and apricots. Their surfaces exhibit subtle variations in color and texture, indicative of careful observation. A single lily stem extends from the basket towards the right edge of the canvas, its petals gracefully curving downwards. A butterfly rests near this stem, adding a touch of movement and life to the scene.
The arrangement is not haphazard; there’s an intentional balance between the abundance within the basket and the more sparsely distributed fruit. The light source appears to originate from the left, illuminating certain areas while leaving others in shadow. This creates depth and volume, enhancing the realism of the depiction.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of mortality and the passage of time. The combination of vibrant life (the flowers) with signs of decay (wilted petals) and the presence of fruit – often symbolic of temptation or fleeting pleasure – suggests a meditation on the ephemeral nature of existence. The butterfly, a symbol of transformation and resurrection, introduces an element of hope amidst this contemplation. The overall effect is one of quiet beauty tinged with melancholy, characteristic of works exploring the vanitas tradition.