Still life: An Allegory of the Vanities of Human life by Harmen Steenwyck

Question 1

1)Composition/ Arrangement

Answer 1

The painting has a triangular composition that cuts the canvas in two diagonally, creating a distinct spatial contrast: the top triangle of empty space suggests calm (symbolizing heaven), while the busy, object-filled bottom triangle represents earth.

Question 2

2) Composition/ Arrangement

Answer 2

“The skull is the focal point of the painting, achieved through several techniques. A ray of light from the left directs our gaze towards the skull, while the book on the right also points to it, further guiding our attention. Additionally, the flute, positioned on the left, leads the eye towards the skull, reinforcing its importance in the composition.”

Question 3

Name of Still Life and artist

Answer 3

An Allegory of the Vanities of Human Life by Harmen Steenwyck

Question 4

1) Media Handling and Techniques

Answer 4

.Painting made using oil paints on canvas

.Steenwyck used a wet on wet approach to build up color, tone and highlights

.Gives painting feeling of realism and depth

.Can see realism in all object particular the skull and shell

Question 5

2) Media Handling and Techniques

Answer 5

.Steenwyck used a variety of brushes to create piece

.Large brushes used for underpainting and background

.Objects like skull and shell very detailed so can assume used small thin brushes to capture details which gives incredible realism

Question 6

1) Colour

Answer 6

.Colours mostly warm

.Advancing colours that draw our eye in to painting

.Light from left beaming down on skull helps this sense of warmth

Question 7

2) Colour

Answer 7

.Harmonious colour palette of yellow

.Orange and brown give painting relaxed mood and creates unity amongst objects

.Colours of objects are true to life such as skull, making t hem appear lifelike and realistic

Question 8

2) Tone