Cornelis Mahu (1613-1689) – Still Life with a chopped herring Part 1

The composition presents a meticulously arranged assortment of foodstuffs on a dark, velvet-draped surface. A silver platter dominates the central space, upon which rests a halved herring, its glistening flesh rendered with considerable detail. Surrounding the fish are several walnuts in their shells, adding textural contrast and visual weight. To the left of the platter, a small pile of cherries is nestled on a folded linen cloth, while to the right, two lemons sit prominently, their surfaces reflecting light. A wine glass stands tall near the upper edge of the canvas, its form echoing the curves of the lemons and contributing to the overall balance of the arrangement.
The artist’s use of chiaroscuro – the dramatic interplay of light and shadow – is striking. The dark background intensifies the luminosity of the objects, drawing attention to their surfaces and emphasizing their materiality. The lighting appears to originate from a single source, creating highlights on the fish, lemons, and glass, while leaving other areas in deep shade. This technique lends a sense of theatricality to the scene, elevating it beyond a simple depiction of food.
Beyond the straightforward representation of objects, the painting suggests deeper symbolic meanings common within still life traditions. The herring, a relatively inexpensive and readily available food source, could be interpreted as representing abundance or sustenance for the common person. Its halved state might allude to mortality or the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures. The lemons, often associated with wealth and prosperity, introduce an element of luxury alongside the more humble fish. Walnuts, historically symbols of wisdom and knowledge, add a layer of intellectual contemplation. The cherries, small and vibrant, may represent indulgence or the brevity of life’s joys.
The linen cloth serves not only as a compositional device but also carries symbolic weight; it is often associated with purity and refinement, contrasting with the raw nature of the food displayed upon it. The wine glass hints at conviviality and celebration, suggesting a moment of shared enjoyment.
Overall, the painting transcends a mere inventory of objects. It functions as a meditation on themes of wealth, mortality, abundance, and the transient pleasures of life, all conveyed through the careful arrangement and rendering of everyday items.