ROTIUS, Jacob
(b. 1644, Hoorn, d. ca. 1682, Hoorn)

Festoon of Fruit and Flowers, with Butterflies and Other Insects

1670s
Oil on canvas, 79 x 67 cm
Private collection

This painting, formerly attributed to Jan Davidsz. de Heem, contains many elements characteristic of Rotius' master - the flowers in various stages of bloom, the ripe, open pomegranate, and the subtle use of light which renders the flowers and fruits in the utmost three-dimensionality. The blue silk ribbon is also a detail inspired by de Heem's hanging bouquets, and was frequently used by another of his late pupils, Abraham Mignon.