Watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris), Anselmus Boëtius de Boodt, 1596 - 1610
brush, h 249mm × w 159mm More details
Without the representation of the watermelon’s red flesh, this fruit is difficult to identify. The names in the box also provide little clarification. The term ‘pronk appel’ refers to an elongated or spherical, decorative fruit; a pumpkin or gourd, and not strictly a (water)melon. The three growth stages shown demonstrate that the fruit becomes large and heavy. In the case of watermelons, this can sometimes amount to twelve kilograms.
