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William Jones of Bath
Rare 18th Century English Still Life of Grapes, Peaches and Strawberries

1779

About the Item

A rare and most attractive still life by William Jones of Bath. The sumptuous textures of the peaches, grapes and strawberries contrasting with the dark background. A really handsome 18th Century piece that would add grace and elegance to any dining room, drawing room or study. William Jones of Bath (flourishing 1764-1779) A still life of Peaches, strawberries and other fruit on a marble ledge. Signed and dated 1779 Oil on canvas 18 x 15 inches without the frame 24 x 21 inches with the frame William Jones worked in Bath at the end of the 18th Century and was one of the foremost still life painters working at that time. 18th-century still life painting in England was relatively understated compared to the flourishing still life traditions in the Netherlands, France, or Spain. However, it still developed its own distinct character, shaped by British tastes, social trends, and a growing interest in natural history and domestic life. The Enlightenment had brought a surge of interest in botany, zoology, and the natural sciences. Artists often created highly detailed depictions of flowers, fruits, shells, and insects, sometimes blending artistic beauty with scientific accuracy. This reflected a broader cultural fascination with collecting, classifying, and displaying nature, seen in things like cabinets of curiosities and botanical gardens. British still lifes of this era tended to be more modest and restrained than the opulent Dutch examples from the 17th century. They often featured everyday items—tea sets, game birds, fruit bowls, and flowers—signaling refinement and domestic stability rather than extravagance. The fragility of flowers or decaying fruit could subtly hint at the passage of time and the brevity of life, albeit in a more understated, genteel British way.
  • Creator:
    William Jones of Bath (1740 - 1801, British)
  • Creation Year:
    1779
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 18 in (45.72 cm)Width: 15 in (38.1 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
    Possibly on an old relining, there is some mild craquelure and faint stretcher marks. Examination with a raking light shows the occasional spot of slightly discoloured restoration, but overall, the colours are bright and strong. A handsome piece.
  • Gallery Location:
    Harkstead, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1481216103352

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