拍品專文
Imported from the East Indies, The Shell (Conus Marmoreus) was an essential part of the Kunstkammer of many connoisseurs including, we presume, that of Rembrandt himself. Objects, such as shells, were collected not only for their inherent beauty but also as an element in the study of both nature and art.
The empty shell included in Still Life and Vanitas compositions of the time, represented the body without the inner spirit. In this densely wrought plate, Rembrandt seems to be demonstrating the balance of art and nature; his knowledge of the poison that previously lurked within imbues the shell in this vacated state, with a sense of frailty which extends beyond the mere depiction of a Still Life.
The empty shell included in Still Life and Vanitas compositions of the time, represented the body without the inner spirit. In this densely wrought plate, Rembrandt seems to be demonstrating the balance of art and nature; his knowledge of the poison that previously lurked within imbues the shell in this vacated state, with a sense of frailty which extends beyond the mere depiction of a Still Life.