Ontbijtjes: The Art of Dutch Breakfast Still Life 113

Ontbijtjes: The Art of Dutch Breakfast Still Life 113

Ontbijtjes : The Art of Dutch Breakfast Still Life This book introduces the unique genre of Breakfast Still Life (Ontbijtjes) paintings, pioneered by Dutch artists in the 17th century. These paintings depict various food and objects on a table from a high perspective, conveying symbols of wealth or religious meaning. Ontbijtjes means ‘small breakfast’ in Dutch, and refers to the simple meal represented in these still lifes. The book showcases the works and artists of this genre, from the Dutch Golden Age to the present day. You will discover the history, culture, and aesthetics of Breakfast Still Life, and enjoy the visual feast of these masterpieces. This book introduces the unique genre of Breakfast Still Life (Ontbijtjes) paintings, pioneered by Dutch artists in the 17th century. These paintings depict various food and objects on a table from a high perspective, conveying symbols of wealth or religious meaning. Ontbijtjes means ‘small breakfast’ in Dutch, and refers to the simple meal represented in these still lifes. The book showcases the works and artists of this genre, from the Dutch Golden Age to the present day. You will discover the history, culture, and aesthetics of Breakfast Still Life, and enjoy the visual feast of these masterpieces. [Featured Artist] Alexander Adriaenssen : Known for his still-life paintings, Adriaenssen often depicted food, flowers, and everyday objects with great detail and precision. Clara Peeters : A Flemish Baroque painter, Peeters specialized in still-life compositions, particularly intricate banquet scenes and table settings. Jan Davidsz. de Heem : De Heem was a prolific flower painter. His works feature rich colors, refined techniques, and exquisite attention to detail. Notably, his “Vase of Flowers” explodes with vibrant blooms spilling over the vase’s edge1. Gerrit Willemsz. Heda : Heda was a master of still-life painting, focusing on luxurious objects, tableware, and food. His compositions are characterized by their meticulous rendering and play of light. Jacob van Walscapelle : A lesser-known artist, Walscapelle painted floral still lifes, often featuring delicate flowers and insects. Jan Jansz Treck : Treck specialized in kitchen scenes and market scenes, capturing everyday life with a keen eye for detail. Jan Jansz van de Velde III : An engraver and painter, Van de Velde III produced landscapes, genre scenes, and still lifes. Jan Pauwel Gillemans the Elder : Gillemans was skilled in still-life painting, particularly fruit and flower compositions. Juriaen van Streeck : Known for his detailed still lifes, Van Streeck often depicted flowers, fruits, and insects. Martinus Nellius : Nellius was a lesser-known artist who painted still lifes, including floral arrangements and tableware. Osias Beert I : Beert was a Flemish painter specializing in still-life works, often featuring elaborate displays of food, drink, and luxury items. Pieter Claesz : Claesz was a prominent still-life painter, focusing on vanitas themes, which symbolize the transience of life and material possessions. Willem Claesz. Heda : Like Gerrit Willemsz. Heda, Willem Claesz. Heda excelled in still-life painting, emphasizing texture, light, and reflections. Willem Kalf : Kalf’s still lifes often included luxurious objects, glassware, and exotic items, showcasing his technical skill. Roelof Koets : A lesser-known artist, Koets painted still lifes, capturing the beauty of everyday objects. Willem Van Aelst : Van Aelst specialized in floral still lifes, creating harmonious compositions with meticulous attention to detail.