Basket of citrus fruits and backsplash with sweets Francesco (Franz Godin) Codino (1590-1621)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a woven basket overflowing with citrus fruits. A dark, reflective surface serves as the backdrop, intensifying the luminosity and color saturation of the objects displayed. The artist has positioned the basket slightly off-center, creating a dynamic visual flow across the canvas.
Within the basket, a variety of citrus forms are visible: lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and others, all rendered with meticulous attention to their textures and surfaces. Several fruits have been cut open, revealing their juicy interiors – a technique that emphasizes both abundance and transience. A small blackbird perches on the edge of the basket, introducing an element of unexpected life into the otherwise static arrangement.
To the right of the basket, a gilded pedestal supports a bowl filled with what appears to be candied fruit or preserves, accompanied by slices of bread. The confectionary items are arranged in a manner that suggests indulgence and luxury. Scattered around the base of the pedestal are additional fruits – dates, cherries, and possibly more citrus – further reinforcing the theme of abundance.
The lighting is dramatic, with strong contrasts between light and shadow. This chiaroscuro effect not only highlights the forms but also contributes to an overall sense of opulence and mystery. The deep black background serves to isolate the objects, drawing the viewer’s attention to their materiality and color.
Subtextually, this arrangement likely speaks to themes of prosperity, fertility, and the fleeting nature of beauty. Citrus fruits, historically associated with wealth and exoticism, symbolize abundance and luxury. The inclusion of the bird may represent a connection to nature or perhaps allude to the passage of time. The sweets suggest pleasure and indulgence, while the cut fruit hints at decay and mortality – a common motif in still life paintings. The overall effect is one of controlled richness, inviting contemplation on themes of earthly pleasures and their inherent impermanence.