Artwork

The White Tablecloth

The White Tablecloth, by Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin, oil, 1732
The White Tablecloth, by Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin, oil, 1732

The White Tablecloth is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin. It dates from 1732 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Accession no.
51577

About this work

Overview

The White Tablecloth is an oil-on-canvas painting by Jean Siméon Chardin, exemplifying his skill in still lifes and domestic scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a still life with a white tablecloth, food, and utensils, incorporating motifs from 17th-century Dutch and Flemish art, such as a foreshortened knife and overturned glass.

Technique & Style

Chardin employed glazing techniques to achieve the desired visual effect, characteristic of his still life works.

History & Provenance

Originally, the painting served as a screen for a fireplace opening, its unusual shape designed to create an illusion of depth when viewed from the floor.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin

Artist

Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin

Jean Siméon Chardin (French:; November 2, 1699 – December 6, 1779) was an 18th-century French painter.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The White Tablecloth?

The White Tablecloth was painted by Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin in 1732.

Where can I see The White Tablecloth?

The White Tablecloth is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is The White Tablecloth?

The White Tablecloth is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of The White Tablecloth?

Museum-quality prints of The White Tablecloth are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.