The red fruits in the painting are most likely to be uncultivated pomegranate. This species is native to Iran and was not introduced to North America until the 16th century. It is most likely that a pomegranate tree was growing in the hills surrounding Steele’s house in Brown County and was fortunately picked by Steele to be his delicious practice subject. Since pomegranate mostly mature in September, it can be speculated that this painting was created in the early autumn. As the pomegranate historically represents good hope for offspring in still life painting, it is possible that Steele intended this as a message to his own children.

Wild Pomegranates

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