Dutch School, XVIII-XIX centuries.

Dutch school, XVIII-XIX centuries.
Following 17th century models.
"Still life with lobster".
Oil on canvas.
Twentieth century tortoise veneer frame with wavy molding and label "J.D. de Heem" (alluding to Jan Davidsz. de Heem).
Measurements: 72,5 x 55 cm; 91,5 x 74 cm (frame).

Still life realized according to models of the Dutch XVII century. The scene shows a table richly arranged on a wooden table: in the foreground stand out a lobster, bunches of black and green grapes, an open oyster, a lemon, a round bread, a wine glass and a glazed ceramic vase. Vine leaves are intertwined among the elements, completing the composition. The grazing light, typical of the Dutch school, emphasizes the texture of each object: the wet sheen of the oyster, the rough surface of the lobster, the transparency of the wine, the peel of the lemon, the shine of the grapes....

In 17th century still life painting, each food and object is chosen for its moral and spiritual significance, in addition to showing the painter's technical skill: the lobster as a symbol of luxury and wealth (being an expensive delicacy, it is also a reminder of the transience of earthly pleasures); the grapes, wine and bread allude to the Eucharist, the oyster is an emblem of sensuality, and also recalls the transience of material enjoyment.