Still Life
Artist
Joachim Beuckelaer
(Flemish, about 1533–1574)
Date1562
Mediumoil on panel
Dimensionspanel: 74 x 106.5 cm (29 1/8 x 41 15/16 in.)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineStoddard Acquisition Fund
Object number2009.26
Label TextBeuckelaer was a pioneer of still-life painting in northern Europe. In addition to autumnal produce and game, the artist depicted an array of opulent objects imported from Spain or Italy. This abundance speaks to the great economic success of the region around Antwerp (in present-day Belgium), then an epicenter of international trade.
Many of the owners of these market and kitchen scenes had an interest in moral philosophy that advocated moderation and cautioned against material excess and sensual pleasures of all kinds. To address these concerns, Beuckelaer often presented biblical subjects in the background. The scene in the upper left has yet to be identified.ProvenanceMrs. Joseph H. Beattie, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., 1954; Dr. Julius Held, date unknown; by inheritance to Mr. J. Michael Held, San Francisco, CA; ownership transferred to the J. Michael Held and Linda Davenport Trust, 2007; purchased by the Worcester Art Museum at auction, Christie's, New York, Rockefeller Plaza, Sale 2237, Lot 41, January 27, 2009.On View
On view
