Still Life: A Banqueting Scene

Jan Davidsz de Heem

probably ca. 1640–41 · Oil on canvas · European Paintings

This table is heavily laden with mouthwatering foods and luxury objects, ranging from metalwork trophies to Chinese porcelain and a casually discarded lute. Both the items depicted and the size of the painting contribute to an impression of opulence and enjoyment. Nevertheless, the prominent detail of a clock in the upper right suggests that time is swiftly passing for the absent revelers who have assembled this feast.

Artist

Jan Davidsz de Heem

Date

probably ca. 1640–41

Medium

Oil on canvas

Department

European Paintings

Credit line

Charles B. Curtis Fund, 1912