Citrus Aurantium otherwise known as the Bittler orange/Seville orange sits next to a Lambis Lambis conch shell on top of a cabinet for curiosites.

The orange tree has more presence than any other tree in Seville, associated with paradise in many different cultures. The Greeks and Romans spoke of the golden apples or 'auratium' that Hercules stole from the garden of Hesperides. The Arabs introduced them for ornamental value and the heady scent of the orange blossom flowers. I am transfixed by the idea and reality of the composition of Muslim King's courtyards which were planted in four corners by sunken flower beds containing the trees, so that when passing on high platforms on the first floor they could smell the wonderful scent and pick the fruits.

The fruit is particularly associated with Winter, when pefectly ripe.
Francisco Barrera depicts the orange in his baroque painting 'El Invierno', now housed in the Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla.

Oil and gesso on board in antique frame 21 w x 21 h cm unframed (35 w x 35 h cm framed)