Bartolomeo Passarotti (1529-1592) – Two market women and a boy with chicken and vegetables Part 1

The composition presents a still life interwoven with figures, creating a scene seemingly drawn from everyday life. Two women and a young boy are arranged around a table laden with produce and poultry. The older woman, positioned on the left, dominates the foreground with her weathered features and direct gaze. She holds a dark rooster close to her chest, while a smaller chicken pecks at the tabletop near her feet. A second rooster stands alert behind her, its vibrant red comb contrasting sharply with her muted attire.
The younger woman is situated to the right of the frame, cradling the boy in her arms. Her expression is more serene than that of the older woman; she looks outward, engaging the viewer directly. The child appears distressed, his mouth open in a silent cry or perhaps a gasp. His posture suggests dependence and vulnerability, contrasting with the stoicism of the women around him.
The table itself serves as a focal point, overflowing with an abundance of vegetables: pumpkins, squashes, onions, and what appear to be artichokes. The arrangement is dense and somewhat chaotic, suggesting a recent harvest or preparation for sale. A small basket sits amongst the produce, adding to the sense of plenty.
The lighting in the painting is dramatic, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in shadow. This creates a strong contrast between light and dark, emphasizing the textures of the fabrics, the feathers of the chickens, and the surfaces of the vegetables. The older woman’s face is particularly well-lit, drawing attention to her age and character.
Beyond the literal depiction of market vendors and their wares, the painting hints at deeper subtexts. The contrast between the womens expressions – the older woman’s weariness versus the younger woman’s composure – might suggest different stages in life or varying approaches to hardship. The child’s distress could symbolize vulnerability within a harsh economic reality, or perhaps represent a more general sense of human suffering. The abundance of food juxtaposed with the boys apparent discomfort introduces an element of irony; there is plenty, yet someone remains wanting.
The inclusion of the chickens, traditionally symbols of domesticity and fertility, adds another layer to the narrative. They are not merely commodities for sale but also integral parts of a rural economy and lifestyle. The overall effect is one of quiet observation, capturing a moment in time with both realism and subtle emotional complexity.