Frederick McCubbin – Chickens, 1901 Sotheby’s

The composition presents a domestic scene centered around poultry within what appears to be a rustic enclosure. A prominent rooster dominates the foreground, its plumage rendered in vibrant reds and blacks, drawing immediate attention. Several hens are clustered behind him, their muted yellows and browns creating a textural contrast against the darker tones of the male bird. The artist has employed an impasto technique, particularly noticeable in the rendering of feathers, which lends a tactile quality to the work.
The background is deliberately ambiguous, suggesting a weathered wooden structure – perhaps a coop or shed – through loosely applied brushstrokes and variations in tone. This lack of precise detail contributes to a sense of depth while simultaneously obscuring any specific narrative context. The light source seems diffused, casting soft shadows that flatten the forms slightly and contribute to an overall atmosphere of quiet observation.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of farm animals, the painting evokes themes of rural life and domesticity. The rooster’s assertive posture suggests a sense of order and control within this small world. The hens huddled arrangement might imply a protective instinct or a communal dependence. There is a certain stillness to the scene; it feels like a captured moment from an ongoing cycle of daily routines.
The artist’s choice of subject matter, combined with the loose brushwork and muted palette, suggests an interest in capturing the essence of everyday life rather than striving for photographic realism. The work possesses a contemplative quality, inviting viewers to consider the simple beauty and inherent rhythms of agricultural existence.