David de Coninck – Dead Birds and Game with Gun Dogs and a Little Owl Part 2 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around the aftermath of a hunt. A collection of dead birds – pheasants, ducks, and other fowl – are strewn across a wooden bench or table, their plumage rendered with meticulous detail. Several gun dogs are positioned nearby; one sits attentively in the foreground, its gaze directed outward, while others appear to be resting or observing the scene. A wicker basket overflows with additional game birds, further emphasizing the abundance of the hunt.
A small owl perches atop a decorative pedestal to the left, seemingly an observer of the proceedings. The background is dominated by a dark woodland setting, punctuated by a glimpse of a dusky sky and silhouetted birds in flight. The overall lighting creates a dramatic contrast between the brightly illuminated foreground and the shadowed backdrop, drawing attention to the central subject matter.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a successful hunt, the painting suggests themes of abundance, mastery over nature, and perhaps even mortality. The arrangement of dead game evokes a sense of transience and the cyclical nature of life and death. The dogs’ presence underscores their role in this human endeavor, highlighting the partnership between humans and animals in pursuing sustenance or sport.
The owls inclusion introduces an element of wisdom or observation; it is distanced from the action yet seemingly aware of its significance. Its placement on a pedestal elevates it symbolically, suggesting a perspective beyond that of the hunters and their dogs. The subdued color palette and careful rendering of textures contribute to a mood of quiet contemplation rather than exuberant celebration. It’s possible to interpret this as a reflection on the relationship between humanity, nature, and the passage of time.