Still Life with Books by Jan Davidsz. de Heem. A collection of antique leather-bound books, loose parchment sheets, and a lute resting on a wooden table against a neutral wall.

Still Life with Books

Jan Davidsz. de Heem

1627 · Oil Paint, Panel

A sophisticated Dutch Golden Age still life capturing the tactile beauty of aged books and musical instruments.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

3 frame sizes

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Paper type
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Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A quiet, grounding work with softened warm notes — sits comfortably in a more formal setting.

Often works in
Library · Study · Office
Placement
Strong over sofas, beds, buffets, or wider open walls
Walls
Reads strongest on light or mid-tone walls
Color notes
Soft sage, Rich brown, Charcoal black

About the piece

Painted in 1627, this still life by Jan Davidsz. de Heem is a superb example of early Dutch tonal painting. The work meticulously renders the worn textures of parchment, the cracked leather of book spines, and the polished wood of a lute, creating a scene of quiet contemplation and scholarly pursuit. Its muted palette and masterful use of light make it a timeless addition to traditional or academic-inspired interiors.