Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn – Stilleven met pauwen, 1638-1640 Rijksmuseum: part 4

The composition presents a still life arranged around a table draped with a simple cloth. Dominating the scene are two peacocks, one lying prostrate and displaying its iridescent plumage, while the other stands partially upright, its feathers fanned out in an elaborate display. A pool of blood is visible near the fallen bird, immediately drawing attention to mortality and sacrifice. Scattered around the base of the birds are various fruits – lemons, peaches, and grapes – adding a layer of opulence and suggesting abundance.

To the left, partially obscured by shadow, sits a young boy observing the scene. His gaze is directed towards the peacocks, conveying an air of detached curiosity or perhaps even melancholy. The boy’s presence introduces a human element into this otherwise inanimate arrangement, prompting questions about witness, contemplation, and the passage of time.

The artist employed a dramatic use of chiaroscuro, with strong contrasts between light and shadow that heighten the emotional impact. Light falls primarily on the peacocks and the fruits, emphasizing their textures and colors while plunging much of the background into darkness. This technique not only creates visual drama but also directs the viewers attention to specific elements within the composition.

The arrangement itself suggests a narrative beyond mere representation. The slain peacock can be interpreted as a vanitas symbol – a reminder of the transience of beauty, wealth, and life. Peacocks were often associated with pride and vanity; their demise here serves as a cautionary tale against excessive indulgence. The presence of the boy introduces an element of innocence or perhaps future understanding, suggesting that even in moments of loss and decay, there is opportunity for reflection and learning.

The architectural setting – a dark archway framing the scene – further contributes to the painting’s atmosphere of introspection. It creates a sense of enclosure, isolating the still life from the outside world and intensifying its symbolic weight. The signature, discreetly placed in the lower right corner, anchors the work within a specific artistic tradition while simultaneously acknowledging the artists role as observer and interpreter of this poignant scene.