Artwork
Plate with Plums and Morello Cherries
Plate with Plums and Morello Cherries is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Juan van der Hamen. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Juan van der Hamen, a Spanish painter active in 17th-century Madrid, created *Plate with Plums and Morello Cherries* in 1627, contributing to the still life genre's growing popularity in the region.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a simple, meticulously arranged composition of dark plums and bright red Morello cherries on a shallow metal dish, emphasizing the everyday beauty of fruit.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the work showcases Van der Hamen's precise and detailed approach, utilizing chiaroscuro to create depth through strong light and dark contrasts, highlighting the textures and shininess of the fruit against a dark, smooth background.
History & Provenance
Part of the early Baroque Italian movement, the painting is now held in the collection of Madrid’s Museo del Prado, reflecting Van der Hamen's versatility across genres, including religious works and landscapes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Juan van der Hamen y (Gómez de) León (baptized 8 April 1596 – 28 March 1631) was a Spanish painter, a master of still life paintings, also called bodegones.
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