The Four Elements
by STOSKOPFF, Sébastien, Oil on canvas, 55 x 73 cm
In this still-life with stove, green woodpeckers and tub, in the motif of the tub containing a swimming carp, the painter presents an object seen from the front, above and inside. This is probably a case of perspective being deliberately manipulated and influenced to serve not only its usual purpose but also to steer the viewer’s gaze. It is as if Stoskopff has tried to imitate the meandering course of our eyes across the picture.