Focus on the work. Still Life with a Chinese Bowl, a Nautilus Cup and other Objects

Did you know that Room 21 of the museum houses “the finest still life in the world”? At least that’s how it was described in 1943 by the collector Theodore Ward. Still life with Chinese bowl, nautilus cup and other objects (1662), one of the three still lifes by Willem Kalf (1619-1693) in the permanent collection, never fails to impress visitors due to its skilful play of light, the rare and exquisite objects depicted and the painting’s hidden symbolism.

Elsa Vallarino, associate of the Department of Old Master Paintings, will be sharing her thoughts, ideas and interpretations of this magnificent oil and its creator with the aim of expanding our knowledge of the work.