Artwork

Rooster and hens

Rooster and hens, by Melchior d' Hondecoeter, oil, 1675
Rooster and hens, by Melchior d' Hondecoeter, oil, 1675

Rooster and hens is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Melchior d' Hondecoeter. It dates from 1675 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

Rooster and Hens is a 17th-century oil painting by Melchior d'Hondecoeter, a Dutch artist known for his avian subjects. Created around 1675, it is now held in the National Museum in Warsaw.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a rooster and two hens in a rustic setting, with the rooster prominently displayed on the left and the hens to the right. The earthy background features hints of foliage and a possible stone structure.

Technique & Style

The artist's attention to detail is evident in the rendering of the birds' feathers, particularly the rooster's, which appear to ruffle in the light. The texture of the feathers adds depth to the scene, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the subtleties of light and texture.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Melchior d' Hondecoeter

Artist

Melchior d' Hondecoeter

Melchior d'Hondecoeter (Dutch pronunciation: ; c. 1636 – 3 April 1695), Dutch animalier painter, was born in Utrecht and died in Amsterdam. After the start of his career, he painted virtually exclusively bird subjects,…