Skip to main content

Main Building

Still Life with Terms and a Bust of Ceres

c. 1630
Frans Snyders (Flemish (active Antwerp), 1579–1657)
This elaborate still life is dominated by a wreath of fruit, vegetables, and grains that frames a bust of Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, fertility, and summer. The wreath is suspended from flanking male and female satyrlike terms (statues of Terminus, the god of boundaries). Among the many creatures Snyders includes in the picture are a crested woodpecker, monkey, and squirrel. This painting may have been designed as a screen to cover a fireplace during the summer months.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.


Main Building