Still Life with Herring, Wine and Bread 1644

Pieter Claesz made this painting of a humble meal, sometime in the first half of the 17th century, using oil paint on a wooden panel. He arranged ordinary objects – a herring, bread, and a stoneware jug – to give the viewer a sense of being in the moment. The objects are realistically depicted, with close attention paid to the texture and form. The rough surface of the stoneware jug contrasts with the smoothness of the glass and the metallic sheen of the pewter plate, the objects arranged to showcase the skilled traditions and techniques of craftsmanship, from pottery and glassblowing to metalworking. The arrangement reflects the wider social issues of the time, such as the availability of food and drink, the role of trade and commerce, and the division of labor. The work draws on the culture of skilled labor and trades, demonstrating the value of these materials and techniques in everyday life. Claesz elevates these humble objects to the level of art, showing us that even the simplest things can be beautiful and meaningful.