Lemon and orange; Mulberry branch
1568
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1568
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows four citrus fruits and a mulberry branch. A whole lemon sits on the right, its yellow-green skin smooth. Below it, a lemon is cut in half, revealing pale segments and a white pith center. An orange sits whole at the bottom left, its dimpled skin warm and rough. Next to it, another orange is split open, showing bright juice pockets. The background is plain, letting the colors stand out. The artist paid close attention to how light hits each fruit, making some spots glow. The way they’re arranged feels simple but precise, like a scientist’s notes. If you like this careful style, look up Renaissance.
