Medina, Pedro de – Bodegón con manzanas, plato de nueces y caña de azúcar Part 6 Prado Museum

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a tabletop surface. A cluster of apples dominates the foreground, their muted tones ranging from pale yellow to blush pink. These fruits are positioned in close proximity to a thick stalk of sugarcane, its rough texture contrasting with the smooth skin of the apples. To the right, a silver plate holds a generous pile of walnuts, some still encased in their husks. A few loose walnut shells lie scattered near the base of the plate, adding a sense of casual abundance.
The artist’s use of chiaroscuro is notable; strong contrasts between light and shadow create depth and highlight the textures of the objects. The light source appears to originate from the left, illuminating the apples and casting deep shadows behind the sugarcane. This dramatic lighting contributes to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of foodstuffs, the arrangement suggests themes of prosperity and abundance. The inclusion of sugarcane, likely imported at considerable expense, hints at colonial trade and the consumption of luxury goods. The walnuts, similarly, were not native to the region and represented valuable commodities. The careful placement of each item – the deliberate spilling of nuts, the casual grouping of apples – implies a studied arrangement intended to showcase both natural beauty and economic value.
The dark background serves to isolate the objects, drawing attention to their materiality and emphasizing their individual forms. This focus on tangible things aligns with the genre’s characteristic interest in observing the world through meticulous detail. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance, inviting a prolonged visual engagement with the simple pleasures represented.