18 - Italian School; 17th century.

Italian School; 17th century. “Still Life.” Oil on canvas. Relined. Measurements: 66.5 x 101.5 cm. The unique spatial openness of this still life—which combines the restraint of Caravaggist naturalism with a scenographic conception rooted in classicism—is one of its most interesting aspects. The composition features objects arranged on a table in the foreground, rendered with a keen sense of realism and selective lighting that focuses attention on their volumes and material qualities. The organization of space reflects a balanced approach, though it incorporates distinctly illusionistic techniques. The tabletop, positioned parallel to the lower edge of the canvas, visually extends toward the viewer, while some objects protrude beyond its edges, accentuating the sense of depth. This technique, characteristic of Baroque still lifes, establishes a direct relationship between the depicted space and that of the viewer. Of particular interest is the combination of two seemingly contrasting spatial solutions. On the right, sumptuous drapery partially encloses the composition and lends it a theatrical dimension, while on the left, a window offers a glimpse of an outdoor landscape. This opening introduces depth and light, marking a departure from the completely dark backgrounds typical of early Caravaggist still lifes. The painting thus reflects the evolution of Italian still life during the 17th century, when the naturalism derived from Caravaggio began to coexist with more decorative and scenographic approaches. The simplicity of the objects, the treatment of light, and the construction of space reveal this transition from early naturalistic Baroque to the more spatially expansive formulas of Classicism.