Still Life with Shells and a Chip-Wood Box

Sebastian Stoskopff

Created:
Movement:
1629
Baroque
key Notes:
Trompe-l'œil realism; Meticulous detail
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Dimensions:
18 1/2 x 23 3/8 in. (47 x 59.4 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Still Life with Shells and a Chip-Wood Box" is a painting by the German artist Sebastian Stoskopff, created in the late 1620s. Stoskopff is known for his contributions to the still life genre, particularly in the context of the Northern European Baroque. The painting features a carefully arranged composition of shells and a wooden box, showcasing Stoskopff's skill in rendering textures and materials. The use of light and shadow in the work highlights the three-dimensionality of the objects. Stoskopff often incorporated natural elements in his still lifes, reflecting the interest in the natural world during this period. The exact provenance of this specific painting is not well-documented. Stoskopff's works are characterized by their meticulous detail and a sense of tranquility, which is evident in this piece. The painting is part of a broader tradition of still life that emphasizes both aesthetic beauty and the transience of life.

Description of the work:

"Still Life with Shells and a Chip-Wood Box" by Sebastian Stoskopff, created in the late 1620s, is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the artist's mastery of still life composition. The arrangement features a variety of shells, showcasing intricate details and textures, which are rendered with a high degree of realism. The shells are placed alongside a chip-wood box, which adds a contrasting element of form and materiality to the composition. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the objects. The color palette is characterized by earthy tones, with subtle variations that highlight the natural beauty of the shells. The background is typically dark, allowing the objects to stand out prominently. Stoskopff's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to capture the play of light contribute to the overall sense of tranquility and contemplation in the work.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Still Life with Shells and a Chip-Wood Box