Artwork

Stone niche with thistle, lizard and insects

Stone niche with thistle, lizard and insects, by Elias van den Broeck, oil, 1696
Stone niche with thistle, lizard and insects, by Elias van den Broeck, oil, 1696

Stone niche with thistle, lizard and insects is an oil painting by Elias van den Broeck. It dates from 1696 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Stone niche with thistle, lizard and insects is a 1696 oil painting by Elias van den Broeck, a Dutch artist known for his still lifes. The work is part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a stone niche with a thistle plant, a lizard, and various insects. The dark background highlights the natural elements, creating a sense of quiet beauty. The thistle's dark green leaves and purple flowers are detailed, as are the textures of the stone and leaves.

Technique & Style

Van den Broeck's use of oil paint allows for detailed rendering of the subjects. The still life genre is characterized by its focus on inanimate objects, often with symbolic meaning. Here, the artist emphasizes the textures and forms of the natural elements.

History & Provenance

Elias van den Broeck was trained in the Dutch Republic and later worked in Antwerp. He painted a variety of still life subjects, including flowers, fruit, and forest floors. The painting is dated 1696 and is now held at the Fitzwilliam Museum.

Artist & collection

Artist

Elias van den Broeck

Elias van den Broeck (c. 1652 in probably in Amsterdam – buried 6 February 1708 in Amsterdam) was a Dutch still life painter mainly known for his flower pieces. He trained in the Dutch Republic and worked for some time…

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