Historical

Still Life with Fruit, Glassware and a Wan-Li Bowl, 1659, Willem Kalf (Dutch, 1619-1693), Oil on Canvas

• Willem Kalf was a 17th Century Dutch painter, known for his incredible detail in his works.
• The 17th Century was a crucial time in art history as it sae the transition in the development and market of art. At this time the distinct category of still-life became officially accepted in the art world.
• This painting uses techniques of lighting, texture and colour to portray the rare craftmanship and talent Kalf used in his work.
• The glossy, transparent glassware contrats with the duller highlights that edge the rim of the platter. Willem Kalf was particularly interested in the way light and colour gleamed off reflective surfaces.
• The peeled lemon, bowl of fruit, glassware and Turkish carpet are symbols of affluence and suggest that this artwork would have been reflected of an affluent household.