961 - Attributed to GIOVANNI BATTISTA RUOPPOLO (Naples, 1629–1693) - Still Life with Fruit

Attributed to GIOVANNI BATTISTA RUOPPOLO (Naples, 1629–1693) - Still Life with Fruit Oil on canvas. Dimensions: 120 x 97 cm (without frame), 140 x 113 cm (with frame) We would like to thank Mr. Enrique Valdivieso for his assistance in the cataloging process. The composition of this still life—dynamic and full of movement—suggests that it was created during the final stage of the artist’s life, probably between 1670 and 1690. This period is notable for the creation of elaborate depictions of fruits arranged in various layers on a kitchen table. Ruoppolo demonstrates remarkable naturalism in this still life, featuring grapes, pomegranates, apples, quinces, plums, and watermelons—fruits typical of late summer and early autumn, specifically between late August and early September. The arrangement of fruits stands out for its admirable technical precision and a warm color palette that faithfully captures reality. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the tonal richness and highlights the painter’s skill. Of particular interest are the elongated grapes depicted in the upper part of the composition. These grapes, known in Italy as “corniellas,” also appear in other still lifes by Ruoppolo, such as the one housed in the Museum of Fine Arts of Seville. (Text excerpted from the certificate by Professor Valdivieso)