Dead hare Jean Baptiste Siméon Chardin (1699-1779)

The composition presents a still life centered around a recently deceased hare. The animal is positioned diagonally across the frame, its body contorted in a posture suggesting both rigor mortis and a degree of unnatural suspension. Its fur displays a range of tones – from creamy white on the belly to russet brown along the back and ears – rendered with meticulous attention to detail that emphasizes texture and realism. A dark cord or strap is visible, seemingly used to suspend the hare, adding an element of restraint and controlled display.
The background is subdued, consisting primarily of a murky, brownish-green hue which serves to isolate and highlight the subject matter. The lighting is dramatic; it appears to emanate from an unseen source above and slightly to the left, casting shadows that accentuate the form of the hare and contribute to a sense of somberness.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a hunted animal, the painting evokes several subtexts. The stillness inherent in the subject matter speaks to mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The careful arrangement suggests a deliberate act of observation and documentation, elevating the commonplace – a dead animal – into an object worthy of artistic consideration. Theres a certain austerity present; the lack of extraneous elements focuses attention solely on the hare’s physicality, prompting reflection on themes of sustenance, loss, and the relationship between humanity and nature. The cord introduces a layer of human intervention, hinting at control and dominion over the natural world. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on the cycle of life and death, presented with an unsettling beauty.