Fernand Léger (1881 – 1955)

Composition with Fruit Paris, 1938 Oil on canvas 92 x 65 cm Paintings can be appreciated in purely abstract terms, and some cultures avoid representational art altogether.  But it was only in the 20th century that Western painters sought to limit their works to colour, line and form.  However, as Léger’s painting shows, representational elements … Read more

JAN DAVIDSZ DE HEEM (1606 – 1683/4)

A Still Life with a Nautilus Cup Leiden, Holland, 1632 Oil on wood 77.5 x 64.7 cm The objects are arranged to demonstrate the artist’s skill in showing the play of light on different materials. The focus is a precious drinking cup made from a nautilus shell.  Around it, in a carefully planned disorder, are … Read more