image 222 National Museum of Women in the Arts

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a table draped with a loosely arranged linen cloth. The subdued lighting contributes to a sense of intimacy and quiet contemplation. A generous portion of green grapes spills from a shallow bowl, their abundance suggesting prosperity or the bounty of nature. Scattered grapes lie on the tabletop, adding a touch of casualness to the otherwise formal arrangement.
A dark glass decanter stands prominently near the center, its form reflecting the light in subtle ways. Beside it, a silver goblet and a more ornate teapot with a domed lid are positioned, their metallic surfaces catching the light and introducing a contrast in texture and material. A small plate holds an assortment of fruit: an apple, a peach, and several plums. The careful placement of these fruits creates visual interest through variations in color and shape.
A single carnation lies detached from its stem near the edge of the table, its delicate petals contrasting with the heavier forms of the silver objects and the substantial fruit. This detail introduces a note of melancholy or transience, hinting at the fleeting nature of beauty and life.
The artist’s handling of light is particularly noteworthy; it illuminates certain areas while leaving others in shadow, creating depth and volume. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet observation, inviting the viewer to appreciate the simple pleasures represented within the scene. The arrangement feels deliberate yet unstudied, suggesting a moment captured from everyday life elevated through artistic representation.