Back from the Market, 1739
Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin
From A Short History of Art by Janson and Janson:
“Back from the Market shows life in a Parisian middle-class household. Here we find such feeling for the beauty hidden in everyday life, and so clear a sense of spatial order, that we can compare him only to Vermeer. However, Chardin’s technique is quite unlike any Dutch artist’s. His brushwork renders the light on colored surfaces with a creamy touch that is both analytical and lyrical. To reveal the inner nature of things, he summarizes forms, and subtly alters their appearance and texture, rather than describing them in detail. Chardin’s genius discovered a hidden poetry in even the most humble objects and endowed them with timeless dignity. His many still lifes avoid the sensuous appeal of their Dutch predecessors. In Back from the Market, he treats the platter, bottles, and earthenware pot with a respect close to reverence. Beyond their shapes, colors, and textures, they are to him symbols of the life of common people.”
Beauty hidden in everyday life.
Sigh.
Happy Friday.
A Living Pencil 
Enjoyed reading Jansons’ comments….yup, that’s what I like about homemaking: the art of it 😉
Dana in GA
Makes you want to open your eyes and have a good look around. Thanks for the reminder of everyday beauty. M in SC
Love the artwork. Yes, commenting has been tough for some reason–blogger is being strange, I think. Thanks for asking about the tests. While something was seen, the drs feel that keeping an eye on it is sufficient for now as it was only seen on one view and not on any others.
Have a good weekend.
I love it! She actually seems to have a smile on her face. Not so characteristic of me when I’m back from the market!Thanks for the welcome back, Carol! I’m slowly catching up.