Oil on canvas signed RL Chretien lower left
This remarkable 19th-century still life by René-Louis Chrétien embodies all the charm and refinement of an era when every object had its own soul. Admire the composition: on the left, an elegant tower of four bottles, whose subtle reflections capture the light with rare finesse. The centre is dominated by a remarkable copper and brass samovar, adorned with delicate repoussé decoration, a must-have for any collector of exceptional craftsmanship. Beside it, an oval earthenware dish adds a touch of softness and balance to the scene. To the right, a pot à oille from the prestigious Manufacture des Islettes stands out with its proud appearance, embodying the excellence of traditional craftsmanship. In the foreground, a perfectly rendered melon, with its realistic texture and vibrant colours, dialogues harmoniously with a plate of bright red cherries, adding a note of freshness and life to the whole. Chrétien's talent for capturing light and sublimating textures shines through in every detail. This work is much more than a still life: it is a testimony to the art of living in the 19th century.