Still-Life with a Nautilus Cup 1662

Willem Kalf's "Still-Life with a Nautilus Cup" (1662) is a classic example of Dutch Golden Age still life painting. This oil painting is characterized by its meticulous detail and the emphasis on the luxurious objects depicted, including a nautilus shell cup, a Chinese porcelain bowl, a silver goblet, and a red fruit. The dark background creates a sense of intimacy and draws attention to the vibrant colors and textures of the objects, highlighting the wealth and refinement of the Dutch middle class in the 17th century. The artwork can be seen at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid.