Mug, Book, Biscuits, and Match 1893

"Mug, Book, Biscuits, and Match" is a small, intimate oil painting by American artist John Frederick Peto, executed in 1893. A simple still life, it depicts a stoneware mug resting atop a closed book, with a single match and two biscuits lying on the tabletop. The muted color palette and precise detail are characteristic of Peto's work, which often explored themes of everyday objects and the passage of time. The artwork is a reminder of the quiet beauty found in the commonplace, and its simplicity resonates with viewers of all backgrounds. The painting is known for its subtle details, such as the worn surface of the mug and the slightly askew placement of the biscuits, which add to its sense of realism and intimacy.