Who painted Still Life with Books and a Globe?

Still Life with Books and a Globe was painted by Jan van der Heyden in 1667.

Where can I see Still Life with Books and a Globe?

Still Life with Books and a Globe is held by Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What movement is Still Life with Books and a Globe?

Still Life with Books and a Globe is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Can I buy a print of Still Life with Books and a Globe?

Museum-quality prints of Still Life with Books and a Globe are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Still Life with Books and a Globe

Jan van der Heyden , 1667

Still Life with Books and a Globe is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan van der Heyden. It dates from 1667 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Jan van der der Heyden, a Dutch artist active during the Baroque period, painted Still Life with Books and a Globe in 1667. Executed in oil on canvas, the work exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age’s attention to everyday objects rendered with meticulous detail. It is part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a darkened table where a lit candle, an hourglass, an open book displaying fine script, and a weathered globe are arranged together. Additional volumes and a rolled paper lie behind the central book, while a fragment of the Song of Songs text is visible, suggesting themes of knowledge, time, and perhaps spiritual contemplation.

Technique & Style

Van der Heyden employs a pronounced chiaroscuro effect, using deep shadows to isolate the illuminated objects against an almost black background. The careful modeling of light on the candle flame and the reflective surface of the globe creates a sense of three‑dimensionality, while the fine brushwork captures the texture of paper and the aged map markings.

History & Provenance

Although van der Heyden is chiefly remembered for his cityscapes and architectural scenes, he produced still lifes throughout his career. This particular piece entered the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s holdings in the 20th century, though details of its earlier ownership remain limited.