Loran Speck (California, 1943-2011) oil on board trompe-l'oeil still life painting titled "Confit Jar with Grapes and Pears" depicting a two-tone glazed pottery jug atop a marble table or ledge with pears, grapes, and a white tablecloth set against a neutral, textured stone background. Signed "L. Speck" lower left. Housed in a contemporary frame with a chrome border. Sight: 21 1/2" H x 17 1/2" W. Framed: 29" H x 25" W. Note: This work was commissioned by the consignor and purchased through the Loran Speck Art Gallery in Carmel, CA in 1997. The original receipt and documentation including title are available with the purchase of this lot. Biography: California-born artist Loran Speck is said to have drawn inspiration for his highly detailed still-life paintings from naturalistic artists of the Baroque such as Caravaggio, Rembrandt and Rubens. Speck attended Oregon State University on a football scholarship. A pre-dentistry major, he had never considered art until he enrolled in a scientific illustration class and became aware of his talent. Speck was honored with feature articles and covers such as USArt (October 1989), American Artist (February 1994), Art of the West (January/February 1996), Southwest Art (January 1987 & March 1998) and Art of the West (January/February) 2005. He worked from a studio in Carmel-by-the-Sea California for many years prior to his death in 2011. Overall excellent condition.