French school, XIX century.

French school, XIX century.
Follows Flemish models, XVII century.
"Still life".
Oil on canvas.
Relined.
Signed "L.Paret".
Presents restorations.
Measurements: 69 x 89 cm; 88 x 108 x 8 cm (frame).

This still life of fruit theme comes from the Flemish tradition, specifically from authors of the XVII century who worked in Antwerp, in the line of Jan Davidsz de Heem. Made in the nineteenth century, this still life brings together pieces of fruit that in themselves are impregnated with symbolic content, such as grapes and apples. The advanced state of ripeness of the apples also adds another layer of interpretation. Intense and contrasting light shines on the silver and bronze tableware. The melon appears open and one of its segments sways on the table. Bunches of grapes overflow from the fruit bowl. In Flemish painting of the Baroque period, this type of still life was called "pronkstilleven", which can be translated as "still life of ostentation", a type of ornamental painting of rich workmanship and subtle glazes, although not without symbolism. This is linked, in general terms, to the abundance on display, which serves as a warning about the moderation that earthly life requires, given its transience.