A still life typically depicts inanimate objects (both natural and man-made) arranged into a decorative, and often symbolic, composition.

Although its origins can be traced back to Greco-Roman art, as a genre still life began with the Netherlandish paintings of the 16th century (the English term still life derives from the Dutch word stilleven).

In his witty portrayal of Gerard Dou in his Studio Douglas Percy Bliss captures the essence of the golden period of Dutch still life painting.

Although traditionally still life was considered the lowest of all of the Fine Art genres, by the 20th century (in line with the growth of an increasingly affluent middle class society) it had come to occupy a more important place than both history painting and religious art (previously considered more significant art forms).

This on-line exhibition offers previously unseen works by Rimmington, Gere, Adshead, Finney, Bliss, Bone, Freedman, Mahoney, Taylor and Spencer.