Artwork
Still Life on a Green Table Cloth
Still Life on a Green Table Cloth is an oil painting by the American Folk Art artist Charles Bird King. It dates from 1815 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
Still Life on a Green Table Cloth is an 1815 oil painting by Charles Bird King, an American artist primarily recognized for his portraits of Native American leaders. This work diverges from his typical subject matter, exploring instead the still-life genre.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a domestic arrangement of everyday objects on a green tablecloth, including a bowl of fruit, a glass bottle, wineglasses, and a tray with additional fruit slices. The composition reflects the still-life tradition's emphasis on mundane, interior subjects.
Technique & Style
King's technique in this piece showcases attention to light effects, particularly evident in the rendering of glassware and fruit, where chiaroscuro creates a sense of realism and three-dimensionality. The work blends American folk art traditions with Dutch stylistic influences.
History & Provenance
Created in 1815, the painting is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston's collection.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Bird King (September 26, 1785 – March 18, 1862) was an American portrait artist, best known for his portrayals of significant Native American leaders and tribesmen.
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