Flowers in a Wan-Li Vase, with Shells

Van der Ast introduced a number of important innovations into flower still-lifes. This bouquet is painted much more freely than those of his predecessors, and is restricted to just a few types of flower. This makes it easier to imagine that this elegant bouquet actually existed.

The flowers exude an air of exclusivity, which is reinforced by the costly vase of Chinese porcelain and the collection of exotic shells.