I shot this large-ish 19th c. oil on canvas still life in two different lighting conditions to try to give a good sense; the tone of the ground shifts a bit depending, but either way it seems lit by an internal light; that watermelon, especially, is just radiant! I love an old still life painting of fruit/s in many forms, but especially love how this arrangement-- watermelon, peaches, plums, pears and grapes, I believe--are so compactly arranged in a pile at dead center, with plenty of air around them, almost like a fancy hat being showcased! And, rather than spread on a table, they're set on what looks to me like a primitive sort of stool--another reminder of how low stools are good for everything:) I would hang this one over the sideboard in the dining room, to be lit by candlelight!
22" x 16" and in very good antique condition. There is a bit of thinness to the paint on the darkest area of to ground to either side of the fruit, not detracting.