Dirk van Valkenburgh – Still life with a heron and a dog barking at a bird Liechtenstein Museum (Vienna)

The composition presents a complex arrangement of naturalistic elements within a still life setting. A large heron dominates the foreground, its body sprawled across the ground in a posture suggesting recent struggle or death. The birds plumage is rendered with meticulous detail, highlighting individual feathers and subtle color variations. Adjacent to it lies a hare, similarly positioned, contributing to a sense of violent disruption within the scene.
A dog, depicted mid-action, occupies the left side of the canvas. Its posture conveys an energetic pursuit; the animal appears to be barking at a bird in flight that soars above the other subjects. The foliage surrounding the canine is dense and textured, creating a visual barrier while also suggesting a natural habitat. A hunting horn rests near the hare, hinting at human involvement in the depicted events.
The background introduces an element of landscape, though it remains somewhat obscured by atmospheric perspective. A body of water reflects indistinct forms, possibly statues or architectural elements, adding depth and complexity to the scene. The muted color palette – dominated by browns, ochres, and grays – contributes to a somber mood.
Beyond the literal depiction of animals and objects, the painting seems to explore themes of mortality, predation, and the relationship between humans and nature. The juxtaposition of living and deceased creatures evokes contemplation on the cyclical nature of life and death. The inclusion of the hunting horn suggests human intervention in this natural order, raising questions about dominion and control. The dynamic interaction between the dog and the flying bird introduces a narrative element – a moment frozen in time – that invites further interpretation regarding instinct, pursuit, and escape.