Still Life with Fruit, Plates and Dishes on a Turkey Carpet 1650 - 1680

Simon Luttichuys painted this still life on canvas, presenting a sumptuous array of fruits and tableware arranged upon a ‘Turkey’ carpet. These carpets, originating from the Ottoman Empire, were highly prized trade items, often depicted in Northern European paintings to signify wealth and exotic allure. Observe how the carpet's intricate patterns—geometric and floral motifs—echo in the swirls of the peeled lemon. This motif of 'unfurling' can be traced back to ancient depictions of cornucopias or horns of plenty, symbols of abundance and divine favor. The lemon peel, hanging precariously, introduces a sense of vanitas, reminding us of life's transience. Consider how such symbols migrate, adapt, and re-emerge—a testament to the enduring power of images and their capacity to convey profound emotional truths across time.