Artwork

Fish in a Basket near a Scale

Fish in a Basket near a Scale, by Abraham van Beijeren, oil, 1655
Fish in a Basket near a Scale, by Abraham van Beijeren, oil, 1655

Fish in a Basket near a Scale is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Abraham van Beijeren. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Fish in a Basket near a Scale is a 1655 oil painting by Abraham van Beijeren, a Dutch Baroque artist. The work depicts a wicker basket of fish with a suspended scale, set against a dark background.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on a neatly arranged pile of fish in a wicker basket, accompanied by a hanging scale. This composition reflects the Dutch Golden Age's emphasis on still-life representations of everyday and luxury items, with the fish and scale suggesting themes of commerce, abundance, or preparation for consumption.

Technique & Style

Van Beijeren employed oil paint to achieve a rich, vibrant texture. The use of chiaroscuro, with light emanating from the left, creates depth and dimensionality, contrasting the illuminated fish against a dark, shadowy backdrop.

History & Provenance

Originally trained in marine painting, Van Beijeren transitioned to still-life art, excelling in fish and luxury item depictions. *Fish in a Basket near a Scale* is now part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's collection.

Context

This work is characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age still-life tradition, which often featured meticulously rendered, everyday subjects. The emphasis on fish aligns with Van Beijeren's specialty within this genre.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions of *Fish in a Basket near a Scale* are not highlighted in available information, it contributes to the broader appreciation of Dutch Baroque still-life painting and Van Beijeren's contribution to the genre.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Abraham van Beijeren

Artist

Abraham van Beijeren

Abraham Hendriksz van Beijeren or Abraham van Beyeren (c. 1620, The Hague – March 1690, Overschie (Rotterdam)) was a Dutch Baroque painter of still lifes. Little recognized in his day and initially active as a marine…