Still Life with a Bird of Paradise and Other Things 1652 - 1666

Broder Matthisen's "Still Life with a Bird of Paradise and Other Things" from 1652-1666, showcases the Dutch artist's mastery of the still life genre. The painting, now housed at the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, features an array of objects, including a book, a globe, a skull, and a feather. The composition is arranged with precision, and the objects cast dramatic shadows, creating a sense of depth and mystery. Matthisen's still life painting embodies the "vanitas" tradition, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The inclusion of a skull serves as a stark reminder of mortality, while the rich textures of the objects suggest the beauty and value of earthly possessions that are ultimately lost.