English or Dutch school; 18th century.

English or Dutch school; 18th century.
"Still life".
Oil on panel.
Presents faults.
Measurements: 39 x 29,5 cm.
This still life of the XVIII century, captured with detail and precision, captures an abundant and vibrant composition of fruits arranged with care. In the center stands out a basket full of cherries that, with its intense red color, seems to invite us to explore the richness of the rest of the scene. Surrounding it, we find fresh, juicy grapes, warm-hued peaches and a partially visible melon, all arranged on a dark table that contrasts elegantly with the vivid tones of the fruit. The green leaves and meticulous textural details contribute to the natural feel, while the ornate octagonal frame harkens back to the artistic sophistication of the period.
In the 18th century, the still life genre occupied a prominent place in the visual arts, especially in Europe. This type of painting not only celebrated the beauty of everyday objects, but was also a symbolic vehicle charged with meaning. It represented the transience of life and the temporality of earthly pleasures, often evoking concepts such as abundance, the virtue of agricultural work or even vanitas, reminding us of the inevitability of death. At the same time, these works demonstrated the technical skill of the artists, who played with lights, shadows and textures to achieve compositions of great realism that delighted the public and satisfied the taste for detail characteristic of the period. This still life, in its balance and visual richness, perfectly reflects that tradition.