PO hidtc 53 Kurt G Blüchel (1934-)

The composition presents a vibrant hunting scene unfolding across varied terrain. A dense forest dominates the upper portion of the view, its trees rendered in shades of green and brown, punctuated by figures on horseback pursuing game. These hunters are positioned at different elevations within the woodland, suggesting a layered pursuit extending upwards towards snow-capped mountains visible in the background. The landscape slopes downwards into a body of water – a river or lake – which occupies the lower half of the image.
Here we see several deer leaping across the waters surface, pursued by mounted hunters and hounds. A figure on horseback aims a bow toward one of the animals, while others are positioned along the shoreline in boats and on foot. The activity is frenetic; the animals appear to be scattering in all directions, creating a sense of urgency and dynamism within the scene.
The color palette is rich and warm, with ochre and gold tones predominating in the landscape. This contributes to an overall impression of abundance and prosperity. The dark border framing the image creates a stark contrast, isolating the depicted action and emphasizing its theatrical quality.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of power and dominion over nature. The hunters are clearly positioned as masters of their environment, actively engaged in controlling and exploiting animal life for sport or sustenance. The hierarchical arrangement – the mountains looming above the forest, which then descends to the water – suggests a structured order within this natural world, one that is being asserted by human intervention. The meticulous detail applied to both the animals and the hunters suggests an appreciation for their form and function, while simultaneously highlighting the act of predation itself.