Still Life with Cup and Pipe, 1895 by John Frederick Peto (1854-1907), oil on wood, 5 1/4″ x 6 1/2″, signed lower right.
In Still Life with Cup and Pipe, Peto wields chiaroscuro to challenge the viewer’s perception of reality and representation. The piece boasts an asymmetrical composition: the cup, precariously resting on the pipe, tips anxiously to one side. With the three-dimensional perspective, the viewer cannot help but feel the tension of imbalance, perhaps instinctively reaching to catch the cup before it falls.
Medium: Oil on wood
A true Philadelphian, Peto’s artistic style developed from brief studies at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and his enduring friendship with William M. Harnett, whose illusionistic still lifes largely informed Peto’s own work. Active in Philadelphia’s art scene during the 1870s and 1880s, Peto withdrew in 1889 to the quiet Methodist community of Island Heights, New Jersey. Living modestly and devoted to family, music, and painting, he remained largely indifferent to financial success. Peto’s still lifes favor humble, timeworn objects – newspapers, letters, violins, pipes, and photographs – often arranged on shelves, letter racks, or worn boards.
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What a great find in Georgetown! Grace was an excellent tour guide and Peter is an absolute gem, will definitely be back! Highly recommend!
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“We found this spectacular gallery over 20 years ago and have acquired paintings, antique lights, furniture, and figurines from around the world there. The range and quality of the offerings on its several floors are stunning. Peter Colasante, the owner, has encyclopedic knowledge and is patient in explaining matters and answering your questions. It is the best gallery in D.C. Its reputation and longevity assure that you will find treasures and pieces not found elsewhere. We recently attended a gallery evening of music and song, with performances by singers, artists, and a magician.”
“I have gotten to know L’Enfant Gallery as an essential fixture in our Georgetown small business community. Peter, the owner, cares deeply about creating a safe and welcoming space, not only to shop for a diverse array of art and antiques, but also for artists to create within the gallery. I attended an incredible woman-led panel conversation “Art as Resistance” for the opening of their Wall of Women exhibition. I have also enjoyed how the gallery has used their storefront window as a living stage during Art All Night, Fall Market, and more- welcoming artists to create and perform. I had the pleasure of hosting a Dinner in the Window at the gallery to highlight our restaurant community in Georgetown. L’Enfant is a true partner for the arts and I would recommend engaging with them more, whether it is hosting an event, enjoying their diverse programming, or shopping their collection.”
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