An artwork on Galleree from Rijksmuseum.
About the artwork
Still Life with Cheese, Floris Claesz van Dijck, c. 1615h 82.5cm × w 111.4cm
Floris Claesz van Dijck
oil on panel
In the soft glow of the morning sun, a lavish scene unfolds upon a sumptuous damask tablecloth, the kind that whispers of elegance and luxury. Fruit, bread, and cheese are lovingly arranged, each item nestling into its spot like characters in a well-told story.
Glancing at this 17th-century masterpiece, one can almost hear the quiet hum of morning conversations. This kind of artwork, often referred to as a 'breakfast,' captures a moment when the world is just waking up, and life feels deliciously fresh. Vivid colors dance across the canvas, vibrant berries shimmer beside the golden crust of bread, while soft cheese casts gentle shadows that deepen the narrative.
What sets this piece apart is the perspective from which it’s captured. A high angle allows the viewer to take in every detail, ensuring that not a single object is concealed from sight. This thoughtfully chosen viewpoint draws the eye deeper into the painting, increasing the sense of recession and inviting us to linger just a little longer.
As you stand before this artwork, you can imagine the gentle clatter of dishes and the laughter of loved ones gathered around the table, sharing not just food but stories and dreams. It’s a quiet communion that transcends time, a celebration of the simple yet profound joys found within the ritual of breaking bread together.
About the artist
The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands. We tell the story of 800 years of Dutch history, from 1200 to now. We showcase over 8,000 works of art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. In addition, we organize several exhibitions per year from our own collection and with (inter) national loans. In the Rijksmuseum you get to know the greatest works of art down to the smallest details.The artwork posted on this site is through the museum's public domain/CC0 data and does not imply endorsement.
Address: Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The best place to view Rijksmuseum‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.