J. Libras (XX) - De Vergankelijkheid van Schoonheid

This masterful still life by J. Libras is a visual feast that stimulates the senses and flawlessly brings the atmosphere of 17th-century Dutch pronkstilleven (ostentatious still life) art onto the canvas.

In this absolute top piece, Libras proves himself a true heir to the great masters of the 17th century. With an incredible eye for detail, Libras brings every texture to life: from the microscopic irregularities on the lemon rind to the delicate wings of the butterfly and the reflection in the glass. It is this fabulous, meticulous brushwork that gives the painting the allure and depth of a classical masterwork.

- Artist: J. Libras
- Medium: Oil on panel
- Year: 1980
- Dimensions: 40 x 50 cm
- Style: Baroque
- Signed and dated bottom right
- Sold without frame

The work immediately stands out for its refined use of chiaroscuro. From a mysterious, softly lit niche in the background, a warm glow falls over the composition. This light gently caresses a sparkling goblet filled with ruby-red wine and casts the lush clusters of grapes in an almost heavenly radiance. Every detail—from the transparent texture of the white grapes to the deep, velvety tones of the blue grapes—is rendered with tangible precision.

The absolute centerpiece of the composition is formed by the brilliantly painted lemons on a tin dish. The painter shows pure virtuosity in the half-peeled lemon: the thick, textured rind coils into an elegant spiral downward, as if it has just been cut. The gleaming, juicy flesh catches the light in a way that makes the viewer almost smell the fresh, tart scent.

On top of the glass rests a subtle butterfly, a beautiful natural element that brings calm to the composition and reminds us of the transience and beauty of the moment. The painting rests on a heavy wooden piece of furniture, partly covered by a spotless white starched tablecloth, which creates a beautiful contrast between the dark, rustic tones and the lively colors of the fruit.