Artwork
Flowers in a glass vase
Flowers in a glass vase is an oil painting by Alexander Adriaenssen. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.
About this work
Overview
Flowers in a glass vase is a 17th-century still-life painting by Flemish Baroque artist Alexander Adriaenssen, created around 1634. Executed in oil paint, it typifies his specialization in the genre.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a simple, elegant floral arrangement in a clear glass vase on a light brown wooden table. The composition focuses on the beauty of everyday objects, with fallen leaves adding a touch of natural impermanence.
Technique & Style
Adriaenssen utilizes a dark background to create a strong contrast, drawing the viewer's eye to the vibrant, predominantly white, yellow, and pink flowers, and the intricate details of the vase's decorative base.
History & Provenance
Painted circa 1634, the work is now part of the collection at the Fitzwilliam Museum.
Context
This piece reflects the Flemish Baroque tradition of still-life painting, which often emphasized the mundane as worthy of artistic expression, while also showcasing the artist's skill in capturing light and texture.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alexander Adriaenssen (1587–1661) was a Flemish Baroque painter, particularly known for his still-lifes of fish and game pieces. He also painted banquet pieces with food and flower still lifes.
Still life of a table with crockery, cheese, sausage and fish
Still life with a hare, dead birds and fish
Still life with wild fowl
Still Life with Fish and a Lobster and Oysters on a Table nearby
Still life with fish
Still Life of Fish and Oysters with a Cat
Still life with fish and a cat behind the table
Fish and Game
