Artwork

The Catch

The Catch, by Hendrik Carré, unspecified, 1734
The Catch, by Hendrik Carré, unspecified, 1734

The Catch is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Hendrik Carré. It dates from 1734 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

The Catch is a grisaille painting depicting a serene scene of three putti (baby angels) fishing in a stream, observed by two women on the bank and accompanied by another putto lounging on a fountain. Executed entirely in shades of gray, this work was likely created as a model for a larger project, such as a tapestry or fresco.

Subject & Meaning

The subject revolves around the playful yet contemplative interaction between the fishing putti and the observing women. The inclusion of a fountain with a lounging putto adds a layer of leisure and harmony, suggesting themes of tranquility and everyday joy.

Technique & Style

The artist employed grisaille to achieve depth through nuanced light and shadow effects. Detailed renderings, such as water ripples and fabric folds, demonstrate meticulous planning and execution, enhancing the scene's realism and visual appeal.

History & Provenance

This painting is a pendant to SK-A-2837, indicating it was part of a paired commission or design set. Specific details about its creation date, artist, or original commission context are not provided in the available information.

Context

As a model for potential larger works like tapestries or frescos, The Catch reflects common 17th-century European artistic practices where smaller, detailed studies in grisaille were used to plan and pitch larger projects.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hendrik Carré

Hendrik Carré painted playful scenes from daily life in the 1700s, working in a Dutch tradition that favored lighthearted narratives.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Rijksmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.