‘Still Life with Lemons in a Wicker Basket’ by Juan de Zurbarán may look like a beautiful arrangement, but these everyday objects also have symbolic meaning.
Lilies and roses were linked to the Virgin Mary. Red carnations symbolised Christ’s Passion. This painting is deeply spiritual, but it’s also full of national pride. The wicker basket overflows with lemons of Seville – abundant, prized, and exported across Europe.
In this 10-minute film, art historian Siân Walters takes a closer look.
See this painting in our 'Zurbarán' exhibition, until 23 August 2026. Book your tickets, Members go free.