"Nature's Bounty"

Datepossibly ca. 1854

MediumOil on canvas

Dimensions27 1/4" x 39" (69.1 cm. x 99.1 cm.) unframed;

Credit LineGift of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller

Object number1935.103.1

DescriptionStill life arrangement atop a black plinth or table. A plate rests on the table at lower left containing a glass tumbler holding liquid and lemon slices. Surrounding the tumbler on the plate are small clusters of cherries and grapes alongside cut lemon slices and two peaches. A glass compote holds strawberries beside it, and further to the right a basket holds peaches, grapes and an apple. In the foreground lies a knife beside cut peaches and raspberries, and piled behind and to the right are bunches of grapes, peaches, pears, a pineapple and a watermelon. Grapevines and stems fill in the composition. The background is a warm brown; light appears to emanate from the lower left corner.
Label TextNothing is known regarding the history of this colorful still life arrangement, but a virtually identical composition executed in watercolor has been recorded. The version on paper is inscribed on the reverse "Painted in Concord, N. H. 1854," thus forming the basis for the tentative place and date assigned to the Folk Art Center's oil.
ProvenanceKatrina Kipper, Accord, Massachusetts; Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.; Given to C. W. by Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.