Artwork
Departure of the hunt
Departure of the hunt is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Philips Wouwerman. It is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Philips Wouwerman's oil painting, *Departure of the Hunt*, created in 1675, captures a lively scene of a hunting party. This work exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age tradition of depicting landscapes and genre scenes. It is currently housed in the collection of the State Hermitage Museum, showcasing the artist's skill in rendering dynamic compositions and detailed figures within a natural setting.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays a group of figures, horses, and hounds gathered by a river, poised to embark on a hunt. Several riders are depicted crossing a narrow bridge, while others wait nearby. A lone beggar is also visible, adding a social dimension to the scene. The title itself indicates a moment of anticipation, capturing the energy of the party before the pursuit begins.
Technique & Style
Wouwerman's artistic approach is evident in the vibrant portrayal of the horses and riders, conveying a sense of animation even in their static poses.
Wouwerman's artistic approach is evident in the vibrant portrayal of the horses and riders, conveying a sense of animation even in their static poses. The composition is framed by trees, leading the eye towards a small tower in the background. A bright sky with soft clouds illuminates the scene, rendered primarily in earthy tones, complemented by touches of green and blue, characteristic of 17th-century Dutch landscape painting.
Context
Philips Wouwerman was a prominent Dutch painter during the 17th century's Golden Age, a period renowned for its rich artistic output. As a member of the Haarlem Guild of St. Luke, he contributed significantly to the era's diverse artistic landscape. He was particularly recognized for his prolific output of hunting scenes, as well as landscapes and battle depictions, establishing his reputation within the genre.
Artist & collection
Artist
Philips Wouwerman (also Wouwermans) (24 May 1619 (baptized) – 19 May 1668) was a Dutch painter of hunting, landscape and battle scenes. He became prolific during the Dutch Golden Age and joined the Haarlem Guild of St. Luke.
