Artwork

Still life with birds and fish

Still life with birds and fish, by Alexander Adriaenssen, paint, 1634
Still life with birds and fish, by Alexander Adriaenssen, paint, 1634

Still life with birds and fish is a paint painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Alexander Adriaenssen. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Still life with birds and fish is a 17th-century painting by Alexander Adriaenssen, a Flemish artist known for his detailed still lifes. The work is characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age tradition, emphasizing realistic and symbolic representations.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a collection of dead birds and fish arranged on a table, with a cat watching from the background. The composition invites contemplation on the natural world, potentially incorporating symbolic meanings associated with the depicted subjects.

Technique & Style

The work is rendered in a realistic style, with attention to detail and texture. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of volume and depth, while a range of colors enhances the overall dimensionality of the scene.

History & Provenance

Dated to around 1634, the painting is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. It reflects Adriaenssen's specialization in still lifes, particularly those featuring fish and game.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alexander Adriaenssen

Artist

Alexander Adriaenssen

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.