Still Life with Peaches, Melon, Grapes, and Berries

Maker Jacob van Walscapelle (Dutch, 1644 - 1727)

ClassificationsPAINTINGS

Date1664-1727

Mediumoil on canvas

Dimensions24 5/8 x 19 in. (62.5 x 48.3 cm.) frame: 33 1/8 x 27 1/2 in. (84.1 x 69.9 cm.)

SignedSigned in lower right of recto in dark gray paint: Jacob Walscapelle [illegible]

InscribedSigned in lower right of recto in dark gray paint: Jacob Walscapelle [illegible]

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Gift of John and Mary Ann Sturgeon

Status

On view

Label TextDutch still lifes often focus on the theme of the brevity of life. The inclusion of insects next to the luscious peaches, melon, grapes, and berries in this painting is meant suggest the fruit’s eventual decay. In addition, the grapes and the stalk of wheat—materials of wine and bread—may represent the Eucharist as the blood and body of Christ, in which case the painting would have led the viewer to contemplate Christ's sacrifice and eventual rebirth.

Object number2011.2