Artwork

Kitchen Scene

Kitchen Scene, by Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón, oil, 1617
Kitchen Scene, by Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón, oil, 1617

Kitchen Scene is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón. It dates from 1617 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Kitchen Scene is a 17th-century oil painting depicting a domestic interior. Created in 1617 by the Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón, it is now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a seated figure holding a bowl amidst a cluttered table laden with fish (whole and gutted), bread, oranges, a clay pot, a mug, a pitcher, and scattered coins. The scene conveys a sense of everyday life, focusing on the mundane aspects of food preparation.

Technique & Style

The artist employed chiaroscuro, contrasting a dark background with the brightly illuminated table to create depth. Notable attention was given to the realistic depiction of light reflecting off the fish and other food items, achieving a high degree of realism.

History & Provenance

Created in 1617, the painting's early history is not detailed here, but it is currently housed at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, as part of its permanent collection.

Context

As a still life from the Dutch Golden Age, Kitchen Scene reflects the period's emphasis on detailed, realistic depictions of everyday life. The use of chiaroscuro links it to broader European artistic trends of the time.

Legacy

While specific influences or direct artistic descendants are not highlighted in the provided information, the painting's adherence to and successful execution of chiaroscuro and realism place it within the continuum of Dutch Masters' contributions to Western art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Master of the Amsterdam Bodegón

This painter made quiet, everyday scenes in 17th-century Holland. Their one known piece in our collection is *Kitchen Scene* from 1617—a small oil painting full of pots, bread, and simple utensils bathed in soft light.…

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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