A Flemish painter of highly realistic, sumptuous floral still life, Frans Ykens was a student of his uncle, Osias Beert (c. 1580-1624), an Antwerp floral still-life painter. In 1630, Frans joined the Antwerp Guild of St. Luke. Indicating the esteem in which Ykens was held is the fact that Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640), famous Baroque painter, had six still lifes by Ykens in his personal collection.

Ykens adapted styles of other artists in his paintings including the realism of his uncle, Osias Beert and of Willem Claesz Heda (1594-c. 1680). Both men were known for 'breakfast pieces', meaning still life painting, which featured dining table items such as a glass of wine, fruit and bread. A 'breakfast piece' oil...