Fede Galizia's Pioneering Still Life Sells for Over $2 Million at Sotheby's
Fede Galizia's 'A Glass Compote with Peaches, Jasmine Flowers, Quinces and a Grasshopper' (1607) stands as one of the earliest examples of still life art in Italy. Recognized as a child prodigy at just 12 years old, Galizia (1578-1630) primarily created portraits and religious pieces, yet her still lifes represent her most significant legacy. With fewer than 20 still lifes to her name, she seldom signed her works and has often been overlooked. This particular piece is one of at least five similar compositions by her, uniquely featuring a grasshopper, which may symbolize time, death, or sin. On January 30, 2019, Sotheby's auctioned it in New York during 'The Female Triumphant' sale, fetching over $2 million, reflecting a rising appreciation for Galizia's groundbreaking naturalism. She is frequently likened to other female still life artists, such as Clara Peeters and Giovanna Garzoni.
Key facts
- Fede Galizia painted 'A Glass Compote with Peaches, Jasmine Flowers, Quinces and a Grasshopper' around 1607.
- The painting is one of Italy's earliest still lifes.
- Galizia was a child prodigy recognized at age 12.
- She painted fewer than 20 still lifes and rarely signed them.
- This version is the only one of five nearly identical works to include an insect.
- The insect is likely a grasshopper or locust, symbolizing time, death, or sin.
- Sotheby's sold the painting on January 30, 2019, in New York during 'The Female Triumphant' sale.
- The painting sold for over $2 million.
Entities
Artists
- Fede Galizia
- Angelica Kauffman
- Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun
- Clara Peeters
- Giovanna Garzoni
Institutions
Locations
- New York
- United States
- Italy