Frans Ykens (1601-1693) Still life with fruits in a bowl.

Oil on panel
Signed lower right F. Ykens
Housed in a 17th century style frame.

At the forefront of the composition rests a bowl, perched upon a table ledge. This vessel overflows like a cornucopia of fruits. Peaches, apples, figs, grapes, and walnuts intermingle in a lush display, creating a harmonious blend of shapes and colors. A whimsical touch is added by a dragonfly gracefully floating above the arrangement, symbolizing a delicate and fleeting moment.
Beside the bowl lies a lemon, its vibrant yellow hue contrasting against the overall tonality of browns, greens, and dark purples. A half-peeled lemon offers a dynamic twist. Amidst the richness, Ykens introduces a subtle but poignant layer to the scene. A few lifeless birds, carefully rendered, evoke a sense of transience and the inevitable passage of time. This juxtaposition of abundance and mortality invites contemplation on the cycle of life, the fragility of existence, and the inherent beauty in both.
The overall tonality of the composition is a symphony of earthy browns, verdant greens, and deep purples, with intermittent bursts of color emanating from the vivid reds of the apples. Ykens' skill in manipulating light and shadow accentuates the tactile quality of each element, creating a feast for the eyes.
Frans Ykens was a Flemish still life painter active in Antwerp and Brussels in the 17th century. He is mainly known for his flower pieces, pronkstillevens, garland paintings and larger game pieces. His oeuvre is fairly well established as he signed most of his work.