Old Master 19th Century Still Life with Fruit Oil Painting by Barajas

This exquisite 19th-century oil on canvas, signed by Barajas, masterfully captures a lavish still-life arrangement in rich autumnal hues. Painted from a frontal perspective, the composition presents an opulent display of fruit, meticulously arranged on a wooden table draped with a sheer white tablecloth. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the realism, invoking a sense of abundance and refinement.

At the heart of the painting, a fine China porcelain serving plate gleams under soft illumination, accentuating its delicate undulations. Resting atop the plate are three impeccably rendered apples and two lush bunches of green grapes, their translucent skins glistening with a glasslike quality. Scattered grape leaves and elegantly curling tendrils add an organic grace to the arrangement. To the side, a golden-toned peach and pear radiate such naturalism that they appear almost tangible.

Above the central cluster of grapes, a ripe melon, adorned with additional grape leaves, anchors the composition. To the right, a bottle of wine subtly enhances the scene's sophistication, its presence harmonizing with the height of the grapevine. Beams of light from the right introduce a dramatic tenebrism, emphasizing the luminous folds of the cascading tablecloth, rendered with remarkable symmetry.

Barajas' masterful brushstrokes seamlessly blend texture and form, from the delicate veining of the grape leaves to the sumptuous ripeness of the fruit. His expert use of highlighting brings depth, creating striking contrasts between the opaque surfaces of the apples and the translucent shimmer of the grapes.

Encased in an ornate Victorian golden frame, the painting achieves a perfect equilibrium between subject and presentation. The luxurious still-life, once a symbol of affluence, invites admiration for its meticulous detail and harmonious composition. The artist's signature, discreetly placed under the opening in the lower middle right corner, marks this piece as a testament to Barajas' technical brilliance and refined artistry.

The history of art in San Miguel: The legacy of the Barajas family

Jose Maria Barajas, was born in San Miguel de Allende in 1840. Jose Maria Barajas family believes he studied art education at the Academia de San Carlos, a renowned college of art, architecture and design, founded in the 18th century. His ancestors believe he could not have painted as exquisitely as he did, without a solid foundation from a distinguished art school. The most important works of Jose Maria Barajas are the murals he did in Atotonilco. We know the majority of the murals at the Sanctuary were done by Antonio Martinez de Pocasangre in the 18th century. However, Pocasangre was unable to finish all these murals in his life time, and the work was left incomplete for almost a century. It was Jose Maria Barajas who completed the work in the Capilla de Loreto, in the Sanctuary at Atotonilco. Jose Maria Barajas was a painter on canvas, as well, Another of his works, is the restoration of a mural in the church of San Juan de Dios. It is located on the left wall, when you enter the church through the main door.

Measurements: 30.5 inches Height x 54 inches Width x 1.5 inches Depth

Provenance: Private Collection, Rancho Santa Fe, acquired prior to 1945


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good Condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The painting is in overall very good condition. The frame shows some wear consistent with age, including slight scuffs, minor chips, and imperfections.

Origin:
Mexico

Materials & Techniques:
Canvas

Details:
Country of Origin: Mexico
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Art Subjects: Botanic, Landscape, Still Life
Frame Type: Framed

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good Condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The painting is in overall very good condition. The frame shows some wear consistent with age, including slight scuffs, minor chips, and imperfections.