Image: Rustic Lentils Still Life on Wooden Table

Available versions of this image

• Regular size (1,536 x 1,024): JPEG - WebP
• Large size (3,072 x 2,048): JPEG - WebP

Image description

A wide, landscape-oriented still life presents a generous assortment of lentils arranged across a weathered rustic wooden table. At the center of the scene sits a large, round wooden bowl filled to the brim with pale green and beige lentils, their matte surfaces softly catching warm, directional light. Resting inside the bowl is a carved wooden scoop, angled diagonally so that its handle points toward the upper right of the frame while its curved edge disappears into the mound of legumes. Some of the lentils spill naturally over the rim, scattering onto the tabletop and creating an organic sense of abundance.

To the left, a small burlap sack has been tipped open, releasing more lentils that cascade toward the foreground in a loose pile. The coarse weave of the sack contrasts with the smooth, oval shapes of the grains. Nearby lie a few bay leaves and sprigs of fresh green herbs, their edges slightly curled, suggesting freshness and an artisanal kitchen atmosphere.

On the right side of the composition, two additional wooden bowls add color contrast: one holds glossy black lentils that form a deep, charcoal-colored pool, while another contains bright orange split lentils, their vibrant hue glowing under the warm light. Behind them, a shallow dish displays dried red chili peppers and mixed peppercorns, introducing subtle reds, browns, and speckled textures.

In the background, slightly out of focus to maintain depth, stand a glass bottle of golden olive oil, several whole garlic bulbs with papery skins intact, a small bowl of coarse white salt, and more herb sprigs such as thyme and parsley. These elements frame the central bowl and reinforce the culinary theme without overwhelming it.

The wooden tabletop itself is deeply grained and imperfect, with visible knots, cracks, and tonal variations ranging from honey brown to dark walnut. The lighting is soft and natural, falling from the upper left and producing gentle shadows that model the shapes of the bowls, lentils, and spices. Overall, the photograph evokes warmth, simplicity, and wholesome cooking, capturing not only the ingredients but the feeling of preparing a hearty, rustic meal from basic pantry staples.

The image is related to: The Mighty Lentil: Small Legume, Big Health Benefits