We have previously explored the connotations of fruit in art and still life paintings; however the depiction of food does not end there; other foods such as meat, fish, poultry, and cheese are found in still life paintings alongside an assortment of beverages. Food not only appears as a whole, but sometimes as bones or even a carcass.
Painters of the past had always been inspired by nature and storytelling, however during the 15th and 16th centuries artists began to use sweets, fruits, and food displayed on cloths as a subject matter, thus creating still life as we know it. These items, often unusual in shape with various characteristics allowed artists to display their observation skills in regards to the description of textures and shapes. Of course, like the majority of paintings throughout this time these still life paintings still carried symbolic and spiritualist meaning.
Symbolism
Food has always had its symbolic place in the arts, perhaps most notably in classic literature and mythology (we mentioned Persephone and Hades in our previous blog). Perhaps one of the most obvious symbolic uses of food and drink in still life paintings is the depiction of bread and wine, which refers to the sacrificial death of Christ – grapes were also used for Biblical symbolism.
Hubert Bellis, Oysters
However, not all food and drink in still life art is symbolic. More expensive delicacies such as items from abroad like shellfish, wines, lemons, and intricate vessels were used in art in order to express the wealth of the patron. Paintings which featured game also acted in this way as they were associated with the privileged lifestyle that the painting commissioner led or desired to lead, because, of course, privilege meant power. Many still life paintings were created in order to express the lavish and luxurious lifestyle of the owner of the work, in fact it could be argued that up until the beginning of the modernist era this type of art was wholly decorative.
Modern Still Life
In modern still life paintings the renowned artists, George Weissbott and Stephen Rose continue to use food and drink as subject matter. On the surface not much appears to have changed in regards to still life painting style, however it is that all important subject matter that makes all the difference, adding a whole other dimension to this style of art.
Stephen Rose, Lobster frigidor
This painting by Stephen Rose is very similar in painting style to the still life paintings created in the 16th to 18th century, however with one notable difference; the subject matter. Here we see modern materials in the form of elastic bands on the lobster’s claws and aluminium foil. Another thing that is interesting in regards to this painting is that the lobster itself is alive and dark as opposed to the traditional depiction of a luxurious cooked, bright lobster as can be seen, for example in the work of Willem Kalf.
Stephen Rose, Mallard
Similar to the previous painting, Mallard by Stephen Rose also adopts the traditional flawless still life painting style, the differences between this painting and older still life works is again the subtle subject matter of the foil box container. In paintings between the 16th and 19th centuries you will find hunted animals which have been depicted as celebratory trophies. In Rose’s modernist still life; the way the mallard itself has been positioned is certainly a point of interest; the duck looks as though it may have fallen from the sky, it is almost humanistic – it is delicate yet makes a bold statement.
George Weissbott, Still life with Coca Cola cans, a glass tankard & popcorn
In the painting above, the artist depicts: Coca Cola cans, a glass tankard, discarded popcorn and packaging containing snippets of the Union Jack. The subject matter of this painting is almost a complete reverse of 16th – 18th century painting, depicting everyday items, almost kitsch, yet in a soft, painterly style. The items may not be entirely luxurious, however they have been carefully arranged and balanced in regards to colours to create a harmonious composition. Created in the 1960’s this painting is more than likely a political commentary in regards to modernisation and globalisation.
Still life continues to be a huge part of art practice; it is certainly a way for artists to display their composition and detail skills. However, it is also a great medium in which to provide social commentaries through symbolism with food, packaging or any other items. For more information in regards to still life paintings, please get in contact with Mark Mitchell by phoning 0207 493 8732.
