LUBEN BOZHEN (supposed author) – Still life with a chessboard Louvre (Paris)

The composition presents a meticulously arranged still life set against a dark, indeterminate background that suggests a confined space, possibly a niche or alcove. A polished silver goblet filled with a ruby-colored liquid occupies the upper left quadrant, its reflective surface mirroring the light source and adding depth to the scene. Adjacent to it rests a peeled lemon, its pale flesh rendered with careful attention to texture and form.
The central focus is dominated by an elaborate musical instrument – a mandolin – laid upon an open book of sheet music. The instrument’s warm tones contrast with the cool hues of the surrounding objects. A small velvet pouch, likely containing coins or other valuables, sits near the mandolin, hinting at prosperity and perhaps a touch of indulgence. Beside it lies a deck of playing cards, scattered slightly as if interrupted from a game.
A glass vase holding a few vibrant red carnations provides a vertical element to the arrangement. The flowers’ bright color draws the eye upward, creating a visual counterpoint to the horizontal layout of the other objects. Behind the vase, an octagonal plate is partially visible, its dark surface reflecting the surrounding light.
The most striking feature is the chessboard positioned on a black table that extends across much of the lower right portion of the canvas. The stark contrast between the black and white squares creates a dynamic pattern, suggesting strategy, conflict, or perhaps the unpredictable nature of fate. The chess pieces themselves are rendered with considerable detail, their metallic sheen adding to the overall sense of opulence.
The arrangement suggests themes of leisure, intellectual pursuits, and possibly transience. The presence of musical instruments and playing cards implies entertainment and enjoyment, while the peeled lemon and scattered cards might allude to fleeting pleasures or a moment interrupted. The chessboard introduces an element of contemplation and potential conflict, hinting at deeper meanings beyond the surface appearance of abundance and refinement. The overall effect is one of quiet introspection, inviting the viewer to ponder the symbolic significance of each carefully placed object within this meticulously constructed scene.