Still life with pottery, herring and pancakes, a print of an owl on the wall by Hieronymous Francken II

Hieronymous Francken II · 1607-01-01

This intriguing still life, "Still life with pottery, herring and pancakes, a print of an owl on the wall" by Hieronymus Francken II, painted in 1607, is a fascinating example of the Dutch Golden Age's evolving interest in elevating everyday objects to fine art. You can find it at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

Look closely at the table: the glistening herring pieces, the rustic bread, and the rich wedge of cheese are rendered with remarkable detail. Even the simple pottery jug and the glass goblet suggest a moment of quiet domesticity. The print of an owl on the wall adds a subtle, perhaps symbolic, touch to the scene.

Hieronymus Francken II, a prolific Flemish artist, was instrumental in developing new genres in early 17th-century Flemish art, often alongside his brother Frans Francken II. This work reflects a broader cultural shift towards appreciating the beauty and significance of ordinary life.

This painting invites us to pause and consider the beauty in the mundane. What details do you find most striking?

Details

This was part of a new trend: making everyday life art.

See the carefully rendered pieces of herring.

Or the rough-hewn loaf of bread and wedge of cheese.

Even a print of an owl on the wall is included.

The artist, Hieronymus Francken II, often painted diverse subjects.

Transcript

In 1607, a Flemish painter depicted a simple meal. This was part of a new trend: making everyday life art. See the carefully rendered pieces of herring. Or the rough-hewn loaf of bread and wedge of cheese. Even a print of an owl on the wall is included. The artist, Hieronymus Francken II, often painted diverse subjects.