Still Life in the Tradition of the Old Masters Bespoke & Personalised
My Still Life paintings in situ
Own an original Still Life that transcends décor: a work of art rooted in centuries-old mastery yet dedicated to you. I will design and execute a painting that becomes both heirloom and conversation-piece, composed of objects meaningful to you, rendered with the technique, depth and finish of the Old Masters.
Still Life in the style of the Old Masters
Commission a Still Life, meticulously painted in the tradition of the Old Masters, featuring a contemporary theme incorporating modern-day or personal items or embracing a truly classical arrangement. The composition effortlessly balances timeless techniques with modernity, creating a harmonious atmosphere of past and present.
Each symbolic or contemplative composition is a meditation on light, texture, and meaning and custom-designed to complement your space and taste.
Why Choose This Approach?
Craftsmanship: Each painting is made entirely by me, using historical methods, genuine pigments, hand-prepared grounds.
Personalisation: Your selected objects, palette, size, framing, installation are fully bespoke.
Legacy & Value: A painting of this quality becomes a long-term asset, beautiful now, enduring for generations.
Location: Based in Provence, the heart of Mediterranean light and painterly tradition. I’m available for in-studio viewings by appointment.
The Concept
In my atelier in Provence, I bring together the discipline of 17th-century technique, under-painting, glazing, rich dark grounds, subtle edges, careful use of pigment, with your personal vision.
Whether you prefer a timeless arrangement of fruit, glass and copper, or wish to incorporate a vintage object from your collection – a camera, watch, sculpture, or book, I will design a composition that resonates.
Traditional or Contemporary Inspirations
The Horologist’s Table
A study of fine watches, vintage Rolex, Patek Philippe, or an open movement, placed beside tools, magnifying glass, and scattered cogs under Caravaggio-like lighting.
Theme: Time, craftsmanship, and precision.
The Gentleman’s Drawer
A study of men’s accessories, cufflinks, leather gloves, spectacles, cologne bottle, silk tie, or signet ring, all in subdued tones.
Theme: Elegance, legacy, and personal identity.
The Perfumer’s Secret
A composition of perfume bottles, flowers, glass vials, and fabric, light playing through the translucent glass.
Theme: Sensuality, alchemy, and beauty.
The Writer’s Desk
A fountain pen, ink bottle, open notebook, wax seal, and folded letters on aged parchment, maybe with a dim candle or an hourglass.
Theme: Creativity, memory, and communication.
Tech & Transience
A juxtaposition of a smartphone or earbuds with traditional still life objects like a skull, candle, or watch, a vanitas theme updated for the modern age.
Theme: Mortality, distraction, and modern vanity.
The Gourmet Table
Cheese, figs, truffles, wine, bread, and olives, a nod to 17th-century Dutch still lives but grounded in contemporary French or Italian gastronomy.
Theme: Pleasure, abundance, and ephemerality.
Wine & Reflection
Fine wine bottles, corks, crystal glasses, and reflections in polished metal or marble. A torn label or poured glass adds narrative tension.
Theme: Indulgence, tradition, and transience.
The Weight of Time
Wine, like art, matures in darkness.
A dramatic still life of deep crimson wine within dark glass, corks scattered beside an aged opener, a meditation on indulgence, patience, and the slow unfolding of time. The light falls as if from a single hidden window, revealing only what memory chooses to keep.
The Musician’s Corner
A violin, sheet music, metronome, or vintage microphone, combining old-world craftsmanship with passion and sound.
Theme: Harmony, time, and soul.
Inspiration for Still Life
Traditional to modern Still life
Commission Enquiry
If you’re ready to explore a commission or simply want to discuss possibilities, click Start Your Commission or contact me directly at info@tobyboothman.com / +33 (0)6 14 78 39 71.
Let us begin a collaboration that transforms your objects, your space and your story into a work of art.