Interior of butcher’s shop Felice Boselli (1650-1732)

The composition presents a stark and unsettling scene within what appears to be a butchers shop. The artist has arranged elements to create a dramatic interplay of light and shadow, drawing immediate attention to the central subject: a partially dissected carcass suspended from a wooden frame. A substantial portion of the animal’s flesh is removed, revealing bone structure and internal tissues in vivid detail. The raw, visceral nature of this display dominates the visual field.
To the left stands a figure, presumably the butcher himself. His face is rendered with considerable realism; his expression suggests a mixture of concentration and perhaps a touch of weariness or resignation. He gestures towards the carcass, as if presenting it to an unseen viewer. The lighting highlights the texture of his weathered skin and the details of his clothing, which appear practical and functional for his trade.
A younger boy is positioned near the lower right corner, observing the scene with a look that seems to convey a complex blend of curiosity and apprehension. His presence introduces a generational element, suggesting an apprenticeship or a passing down of skills and traditions. The inclusion of this figure also hints at themes of innocence confronted by the realities of life and death.
The background is largely obscured in darkness, which serves to intensify the focus on the foreground action. A few indistinct details suggest the interior space of the shop – wooden beams and what might be shelves or storage areas.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of a butcher’s trade, the painting seems to explore themes related to mortality, sustenance, and the relationship between humans and animals. The graphic nature of the scene evokes a sense of unease, prompting reflection on the processes involved in providing food and the inherent violence embedded within them. The artists meticulous rendering of anatomical detail lends a certain solemnity to the subject matter, elevating it beyond mere documentation into a meditation on life’s cycles and the inevitability of decay. The contrast between the butcher’s practiced demeanor and the boy’s wide-eyed observation further underscores the complexities of this interaction.