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Pieter ClaeszDutch artist, master of still life
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Content:
- Biography of Peter Claesz
- Early Works and Development
- Signature Style and Subjects
- Composition and Technique
Biography of Peter Claesz
Peter Claesz was a Dutch artist and master of still life painting in the 17th century. He was born in Burgsteinfurt, a small town in Westphalia. Little is known about his early years, but his earliest works date back to 1621-1622. These early works display a sense of apprenticeship and a reliance on established models, such as the artificial and grand compositions of Nicolaes Gillis and Frans van Schooten.

Early Works and Development
In his early works, Claesz's objects were not yet interconnected, but rather isolated, with the only indication of his future direction being the placement of objects in the corner of the table. However, by the 1630s, Claesz emerged as a refined and independent master. An excellent example of his mature work is the still life painting "Pipes on a Table" (1636), housed in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. This painting, although an unusual subject for Claesz, showcases his characteristic style. The still life is executed with precision and restraint, focusing on color. Its modesty can be seen as a defining characteristic of Claesz's work, as it enhances the sense of intimacy and relates to the viewer on a personal level.
Signature Style and Subjects
Claesz often chose a limited number of objects for his compositions, such as a beautiful glass or a lemon casually left on the corner of the table, along with fruits and oysters. There is always an internal dialogue between these objects, with their relationships strictly defined. Claesz valued the beauty of each object, its noble proportions, and unique texture. His still lifes reflect an optimistic and epicurean attitude towards life, which was prevalent among the Dutch bourgeoisie of the 17th century and their desire for a quiet private life. Claesz's art catered to this audience, considering their individual needs. His work is intimate in nature and unpretentious.
Composition and Technique
Claesz expertly constructs the compositions of his still lifes. In most cases, he employs a low horizon line and places a vertical object, such as a tall glass, as the focal point around which the other objects are arranged. Each object is imbued with a sense of human presence. In the entire city of Haarlem, only Willem Heda could match Claesz's mastery in still life painting, and their names have become intertwined in the history of art.