Dirk van Valkenburg – Still life with game bat Liechtenstein Museum (Vienna)

The composition presents a lavish display of hunted fowl and canine companions arranged before a landscape backdrop. A central focus is drawn to a large swan, its wings spread in a dramatic gesture that dominates the foreground. Around it are grouped various birds – pheasant, duck – rendered with meticulous attention to detail regarding their plumage and form. The arrangement suggests abundance and successful hunting.
To the left of the swan, a fox appears, its mouth open in what could be interpreted as either a howl or a snarl. Its presence introduces an element of potential threat or disruption to the scene’s apparent harmony. A hound, collar adorned with elaborate detailing, stands attentively on the right side, positioned near a cluster of flowers and foliage. The dogs posture conveys loyalty and readiness.
The background depicts a hazy landscape – a vista of trees, distant figures engaged in hunting activities, and a mountainous horizon. This backdrop is painted with looser brushstrokes compared to the precise rendering of the foreground elements, creating a sense of depth and distance. A stone architectural element, partially visible on the right side, frames the scene and adds a touch of formality.
The painting’s subtexts likely revolve around themes of wealth, status, and the relationship between humans, animals, and nature. The display of game suggests prosperity and mastery over the natural world. The foxs inclusion could symbolize cunning or the ever-present threat of disruption to order. The dogs represent fidelity and the human partnership with animals in pursuits like hunting. Overall, the work conveys a sense of controlled abundance and a celebration of the hunt within a hierarchical social structure.