CHARDIN JEAN BAPTISTE SIMEON – Skat Louvre (Paris)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around food and domesticity, rendered in a muted palette dominated by browns, ochres, and creams. A substantial portion of the canvas is occupied by a draped cloth, partially obscuring a collection of raw meat – likely game judging from its size and form. The fabric’s folds are meticulously depicted, creating a sense of volume and texture that draws attention to the perishable nature of the food beneath.
To the left, a cat with distinctive black and white markings is positioned near an assortment of shellfish – oysters and mussels – scattered on a wooden surface. The animals gaze is directed towards the viewer, imbuing it with a sense of alertness and curiosity. A small bottle sits nearby, its contents indistinct but contributing to the overall impression of abundance.
On the right side of the arrangement, a white cloth drapes over a table or ledge, supporting a pewter plate and a dark ceramic vessel. A knife rests on the cloth, suggesting recent use in preparing the meal. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it highlights certain areas – the meat’s surface, the cats fur – while leaving others in shadow, contributing to the painting’s depth and realism.
The arrangement suggests a moment of preparation or aftermath of a meal. It isnt celebratory but rather portrays an everyday scene with a quiet dignity. The inclusion of the cat introduces a touch of domesticity and a hint of potential disruption – a reminder that even in scenes of abundance, life continues its course. The raw nature of the food evokes themes of sustenance and mortality, while the careful rendering of textures and light speaks to an appreciation for the mundane details of existence. Theres a sense of quiet observation; the artist seems less interested in conveying a narrative than in capturing the essence of a fleeting moment within a domestic setting.