Guido Mocafico Nature morte au cochon 89742 172 часть 2 -- European art Европейская живопись

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around the butchering and processing of pork. A wooden shelf dominates the upper portion of the scene, supporting various cured meats suspended from hooks – sausages, what appear to be hams or shoulders, and other unidentified cuts. The darkness beyond this shelf creates a sense of depth and isolates the central subject matter.
Below, on a dark wooden surface, lies the dismembered remains of a pig. A large portion of the head is prominently displayed, its features rendered with considerable realism. Adjacent to it are sections of raw meat – ribs, belly, and other cuts – arranged alongside sausages coiled in a loose spiral. A cleaver rests near the carcass, suggesting the recent act of slaughter. A white cloth drapes across the surface, partially concealing some of the elements while also contributing to the textural complexity of the arrangement.
The lighting is dramatic, highlighting the textures and colors of the meat while casting deep shadows that obscure portions of the scene. This creates a stark contrast between light and dark, emphasizing the physicality and materiality of the subject matter. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, reds, and creams – which further reinforce the association with raw materials and traditional food preparation.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of butchery, the arrangement evokes several subtexts. It prompts reflection on themes of consumption, mortality, and the relationship between humans and animals. The meticulous rendering of the animal parts can be interpreted as a form of respect for the source of sustenance, while simultaneously confronting viewers with the reality of food production often hidden from view. The composition’s deliberate arrangement – the careful placement of each element – suggests an almost ritualistic quality to the process, elevating it beyond mere functionality and into the realm of artistic contemplation. There is a sense of abundance and potential waste, prompting consideration of resourcefulness and the cyclical nature of life and death.