Cook in front of the Stove 1559

"Cook in front of the Stove" (1559) by Pieter Aertsen is a Flemish genre painting depicting a woman preparing a meal in a kitchen. The painting is notable for its realistic depiction of everyday life and its emphasis on the abundance of food available to the wealthy. The woman is shown standing in front of a stove, surrounded by various types of meat, vegetables, and other ingredients. The painting is also notable for its use of light and shadow, which creates a sense of depth and realism. The composition is carefully balanced, with the woman's figure as the central focal point. This painting exemplifies Aertsen's mastery of still life and genre painting.