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5 Pieter Claesz Claesz’s still lifes exhibit an impressive attention to detail and virtuosity in the depiction of objects, as in this painting with its sumptuous oysters, that were considered an aphrodisiac. The artist produced refined compositions, employing light and sha- dowmasterfully along with the subtle use of colour. His skilful rendering of textures, reflections and surface structures reached its apex in the genre known as ‘Monochrome Banketje’ (monochrome banquet still lifes). His sculptural compositions played a major role in establishing Haarlem as a centre for the still life in the Dutch Golden Age. Pieter Claesz (1597–1660). Still life with glasses, bread and oysters. 1642. Oil on panel. 35.1 × 50.3 cm. Estimate: CHF 200 000/250 000 Jan Davidsz. de Heem Like that of his contemporary Pieter Claesz, de Heem’s name is synonymous with the great period of Dutch still-life painting in the 17 th century. This work combines recurring elements: a bowl lavishly filled with fruit and foliage and the opened oys- ters with lemons. De Heem’s influence on art history continues to be recognised today. Jan Davidsz. de Heem (1606–1684). Still life with fruit bowl and oysters. Oil on panel. 48.4 × 62.7 cm. Estimate: CHF 300 000/400 000 Pieter de Ring While comparatively little is known about de Ring’s life, his still lifes are prized by art critics and collectors. In addition to impressive attention to detail, de Ring’s paint- ings are characterised by luminous colours and masterful lighting. What is striking about the composition of this work is the overlapping of the individual pictorial el- ements; in this way, the artist emphasises the complexity of the composition with- out compromising its clarity. Pieter de Ring (1615–1660). Still life with fruit on a table. Oil on canvas. 47.2 × 40.8 cm. Estimate: CHF 100 000/150 000