September 04th, 2016

Francisco de Zurbaran (Spanish); 1598-1664.  Still Life with Lemons, Oranges and a Rose; oil on canvas; 24x42 inches.
Devout Catholics in 17th century Spain would have understood the symbolism portrayed.  The careful placement of the three arrangements allude to the Holy Trinity.  Also, the painting can read as an homage to the Virgin...the oranges and the blossoms along with water symbolizing her purity.  The rose, which is thornless, is referencing her Immaculate Conception.
Notice the humbleness of the objects. And while each occupy their own space, they reference one another...the glow emanating from them gives a strong mystical presence to the the painting.