Still Life with Oysters, a Rummer, a Lemon and a Silver Bowl

A half wine-filled Roemer, a goblet similar to a rummer, is a frequently recurring motif in willem Claesz. Heda's still lifes.In this panel he has painted the glassware, the silver bowl (tazza) that has been knocked over and the pewter plate with opened oysters, against an empty background rather devoid of colour. The lemon - an exotic, expensive fruit in the 17th century - gives it a dazzling touch. This still life is a superb example of Dutch realism. But it may still contain a hidden message. The half-full Rummer could symbolize the virtues of moderation, whereas the one lying in shatters on the plate with oysters would seem to be a warning against leading a sinful life. In the 17th century oysters were associated with frequenting brothels and intemperance. Heda seems to be warning: look where intemperance leads - everything is smashed to smithereens.