François Bonvin’s Still Life with Bucket captures an intimate, almost meditative moment. At the center of the composition lies a copper bucket, placed against a dark background that isolates the object and intensifies its presence. This bucket, seemingly designed for everyday use, such as carrying water, goods, or even water for cooking, bears the marks of practical utility. Its smooth, slightly worn surface glistens under the light, revealing a rich patina that speaks of years of service. The reflections within the metal, subtle yet present, shimmer across its surface, drawing attention to the nuanced textures of the material. Laid over part of the bucket is a soft, white cloth, its simple folds adding a sense of calm and elegance. The cloth contrasts beautifully with the rich, warm tones of the copper, its whiteness almost glowing in the dim light. The curvature of the cloth suggests a moment of pause—perhaps a break in work, where the bucket has been momentarily set aside, draped in such a way that it appears as if the objects are part of a larger narrative, a story of daily life and labor. Resting on a wooden shelf, the bucket is firmly placed within the realm of the everyday, a testament to the utilitarian world Bonvin often sought to elevate. The grain of the wood, though subtle, adds another layer of texture to the scene, grounding the bucket in a simple, earthy reality. The dark background envelops the objects, focusing all attention on the delicate interplay of light, shadow, and material. Through this careful rendering, Bonvin invites the viewer to pause and reflect on the uncelebrated beauty of the most functional objects, imbuing them with a quiet dignity. This note was written by Elsa Dikkes.