In a surprising turn of events, a hidden painting by Clara Peeters has been uncovered in the storage of a museum in Oslo. Art historian Cynthia Osiecki made the discovery while searching for a piece by Peeters, a renowned 17th-century Flemish Baroque artist. The painting, entitled “Still Life with Small Game and Grapes on a Gilded Tazza,” was previously thought to be the work of Ambrosius Brueghel before being reattributed to Peeters after a meticulous investigation.
Osiecki’s keen eye noticed distinctive features in the painting, such as the inclusion of nine dead birds, hazelnuts, and apricots, all meticulously arranged. Peeters was known for embedding her likeness in her works, often painting subtle self-portraits on objects like pewter jugs. Despite challenges like woodworm damage obscuring the signature, thorough research and comparison with other works confirmed Peeters as the true artist.
The National Museum of Norway is shining a light on historic female artists, including Peeters, through the upcoming exhibition “Woman Painter,” showcasing works by 19 female artists from northern Europe and Italy. Nora Ceciliedatter, director of collections and exhibitions at the museum, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating underrepresented artistic perspectives.
Osiecki’s efforts in attributing the painting to Peeters highlight the ongoing need to uncover and acknowledge the contributions of female artists who have been overlooked or misattributed. By delving into the works of women artists, more hidden gems can be brought to light, enriching the art world’s understanding and appreciation of their talents.
