Still Life with Three Quinces
Painting on canvas • Contemporary Realist school, reminiscent of the style of painters such as Martha Alf or contemporary practitioners of the 'New Realism' movement.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Realism / Neo-Classical Still Life
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing smooth glazing and sfumato to achieve soft transitions and a subtle luminosity in the fruit.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century to early 21st Century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches (excluding frame), Landscape format
Subject Description
A minimalist composition featuring three yellow quinces against a dark, monochromatic indigo-grey background. The arrangement focuses on the interplay of light and shadow (chiaroscuro) and the organic textures of the fruit skins, suggesting a meditative or quietist narrative.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paint layer appears stable with no immediate signs of flaking or significant craquelure.
Estimated Market Value
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a contemporary art gallery or direct from the artist's studio; no visible historical labels are present in the provided image.
Art Historical Significance
The piece represents the persistence of the Spanish and Dutch still-life traditions (Bodegón) in modern art, emphasizing formal qualities and the 'monumentality of the mundane.'
Notable Features
The use of a deep, atmospheric background creates a 'void' effect that draws total focus to the fruit’s volume and color. The high-quality ebonized frame with gold fillet suggests high production value.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust and very slight corner tension visible on the canvas; the frame shows light scuffing consistent with age.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning to remove surface dust. Display in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light to prevent fading of the dark pigment.