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Still Life with a Salt
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Still Life with a Salt

ca. 1640 - ca. 1645

Medium

oil on panel

Dimensions

h 52.6cm × w 44.1cm

Collection

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Materials

panel; oil paint (paint)

Object Type

painting

Subject Matter

laid table as still life; breakfast piece (Dutch: 'ontbijtje'); glass, rummer; salt-cellar, salt-shaker; salt

Acquisition Method

bequest

Acquired

1985

Notes

oil on panel

Collection Type

paintings

About Pieter Claesz

1597–1661Southern NetherlandsDutch Republic

It was long believed that he was born in Germany, although archival evidence may suggest that he was probably born in Berchem, near Antwerp. In any case, he spent his entire career in Haarlem. He seems not to have used the surname "Berchem" that was adopted by his son, Nicolaes Berchem. He was an important exponent of the 'ontbijt' or breakfast piece. Known for his subdued, monochromatic palette and his subtle use of light and texture. His later work became more colorful and decorative. Comment on works: Still life; Fruit; Vanitas; Fish