Poulterer Vincenzo Campi (1536-1591)

The composition presents a scene overflowing with abundance and domesticity, centered around a lavish display of fowl and livestock. Here we see two figures – a woman on the left and a young boy on the right – positioned before a table laden with game birds and other animals. The woman holds a large goose, her gaze directed outward, seemingly acknowledging an unseen observer. Her attire suggests a degree of prosperity; she is dressed in rich fabrics with intricate detailing around the collar.
The boy, standing opposite her, presents a duck towards the viewer, his expression appearing somewhat detached or even slightly mischievous. He wears a similarly elaborate ruff and a green tunic, indicating a shared social status with the woman. The table itself serves as a focal point, piled high with various birds – pheasants, partridges, pigeons – alongside rabbits and other small animals. A wicker basket sits atop the table, further emphasizing the bounty of the harvest or hunt.
Behind this central grouping, a dense arrangement of hanging fowl dominates the background. These are suspended from branches, creating a visual barrier that separates the foreground figures from the implied landscape beyond. The sheer number of birds suggests an almost overwhelming level of plenty. To the right, a goat and several lambs are depicted amidst foliage, adding another layer to the scene’s pastoral theme. A scattering of eggs on the ground reinforces the idea of fertility and continued abundance.
The paintings subtexts likely revolve around themes of prosperity, social status, and the relationship between humans and nature. The lavish display of food could be interpreted as a symbol of wealth and privilege, showcasing the ability to command resources and indulge in luxury. The presence of both an adult woman and a young boy suggests a generational continuity of this lifestyle.
The somewhat detached expressions of the figures introduce a note of ambiguity. They are not actively engaged with the abundance surrounding them; rather, they seem to present it as a display, perhaps for evaluation or admiration. This could imply a sense of complacency or even a subtle critique of excessive consumption. The overall effect is one of controlled opulence, where natures bounty is harnessed and presented within a carefully constructed domestic setting.