Mound of Butter

This painting is a fine example of Antoine Vollon’s still-life work. It showcases a rich, deep yellow mound of butter—likely tinted by the carotene from the fresh plants commonly eaten by grazing cows. During Vollon’s era, butter was typically handmade and purchased directly from farmers.

After milking, the cream was collected and churned to produce butter, which was then kneaded by hand or worked with a spatula to remove excess moisture, as high levels of buttermilk would shorten its shelf life. Butter was usually stored, wrapped in cheesecloth, and kept in a cool place. In this painting, the cloth surrounding the butter is draped loosely over a couple of eggs beside it.

The painting features thick, textured strokes layered over the butter, likely representing the marks left by a butter knife or the wooden spatula used in spreading and producing butter. Kitchen scenes, food preparation, and everyday objects were common subjects in still-life art during Vollon’s time.

Vollon achieved celebrity status throughout his career, earning several prestigious awards, such as the Legion of Honor, and was declared "the Chardin of his day." His paintings maintained popularity, and thus many of his works are in private collections today. French writer Alexandre Dumas, and fellow American painter William Merritt Chase, for example, collected his various artworks.

This impressive mound of butter is featured in our 50 Postcards Set with Food and Drinks. Check out the yummy selection!  :)

P.S. There's nothing better than butter on freshly baked bread. Take a look at those beautiful breakfast scenes by Jean-Étienne Liotard! For more art inspired by food, see the articles below.