Still Life

Cornelis de Heem was the son of the very famous still-life painter Jan Davidsz. de Heem, with whom he trained. Cornelis spent the majority of his career in Antwerp, working in close emulation of his father’s style. In general, Cornelis’s paintings show a greater emphasis on line and a surface that approaches the appearance of enamel. The present painting exemplifies his ability to render fruit in a jewel-like manner. The artist depicts an abundance of appetizing fruit – cherries, grapes, oranges and pomegranates – some of which are almost bursting with ripeness. The artfully peeled orange in the foreground features prominently in many of his still lifes. Through this carefully constructed arrangement, De Heem delightfully appeals to our senses.