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 extend our gratitude to 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 representations of fruits arranged in various levels 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 collection of fruits stands out for its admirable technical precision and a warm chromatic palette that faithfully captures reality. The interplay of illuminated elements and shadowed areas 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, ” are also featured in other still lifes by Ruoppolo, such as the one housed in the Museum of Fine Arts of Seville. (Text extracted from the certificate by Professor Valdivieso)