Who painted Flowers in a Vase?

Flowers in a Vase was painted by Simon Pietersz Verelst in 1669.

Where can I see Flowers in a Vase?

Flowers in a Vase is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Flowers in a Vase?

Flowers in a Vase is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Flowers in a Vase?

Museum-quality prints of Flowers in a Vase are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Flowers in a Vase

Simon Pietersz Verelst , 1669

Flowers in a Vase is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Simon Pietersz Verelst. It dates from 1669 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting by Verelst features a simple glass vase containing a sparse yet balanced arrangement of flowers on a stone ledge.

Accession no.: 1982.246
Credit line: Gift of Mrs. Noah L. Butkin

About this work

Overview

This painting by Verelst features a simple glass vase containing a sparse yet balanced arrangement of flowers on a stone ledge. The composition exudes sophistication through its restrained use of elements.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a still life of a vase with a rose, a red anemone, and a white narcissus tinged with pink, accompanied by smaller scattered blossoms. The arrangement emphasizes natural beauty and the artist's skill in capturing it.

Technique & Style

Verelst employed realism to depict the flowers, vase, and stone ledge. Notable techniques include the subtle reflection of a window in the glass (without depicting the window itself) and the intentional rendering of chips in the stone to enhance tactile realism. Soft, graded lighting adds depth, highlighting one petal while gently fading others.

History & Provenance

Verelst, originally from Holland, relocated to London early in his career, where he worked for King James II's court. His flower paintings were notably praised for their realism during this period.

Context

As a still-life painter in 17th-century Europe, Verelst's work reflects common devices of the genre, such as the use of reflective surfaces and textured backgrounds to create depth and realism.

Legacy

This work demonstrates Verelst's contribution to the still-life tradition, particularly in capturing the beauty of flowers with meticulous realism, influencing the perception of floral subjects in art.