A Gallery: Food & Cooking in Art History

From early civilizations depicting crops on cave walls to elaborate Renaissance still lifes overflowing with fruit, vegetables, and meats, food has served many purposes in art. It can symbolize wealth, religious beliefs, or even entire cultures. Paintings can also capture the act of cooking itself, offering a glimpse into historical kitchens and the social aspects of preparing a meal. The gallery below shows just a few of our favorites. (Click to enlarge and see titles).