Jan Steen – Portrait of Jacoba Maria van Wassenaer (1654-1683), known as ’The Poultry Yard’ Mauritshuis

Here we observe a lively scene unfolding within what appears to be a courtyard or enclosed garden. The composition is dominated by a central archway framing a distant cityscape – a view that suggests prosperity and connection to urban life despite the rural setting. A profusion of poultry populates the foreground: chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and a magnificent peacock contribute to an atmosphere of abundance and domesticity.
Two men are present on either side of the central grouping. One, positioned near a partially open wooden structure, holds a basket and appears to be tending to the birds within. His posture is somewhat stooped, suggesting diligence or perhaps weariness from his duties. The other man, older and with a more pronounced beard, approaches carrying another basket, his gaze directed towards a young girl who stands in the center of the scene.
The girl, dressed in an elaborate white gown, holds a small dish, seemingly offering food to the birds at her feet. Her expression is serene, almost detached from the bustling activity around her. The contrast between her refined attire and the rustic environment underscores a sense of privilege and perhaps a carefully constructed image of domestic virtue.
The artist has employed a rich palette, with warm earth tones dominating the scene while the peacock’s iridescent plumage provides a striking focal point. Light falls unevenly across the courtyard, creating areas of shadow that add depth and complexity to the composition. The arrangement of figures and animals is not random; it creates a dynamic flow through the space, drawing the viewers eye from one detail to another.
Subtleties within the scene hint at deeper meanings. The open doorway suggests access to wider opportunities or perhaps a desire for connection beyond the confines of the courtyard. The abundance of fowl could symbolize wealth and fertility, while the peacock – a traditional symbol of vanity and pride – introduces an element of ambiguity. The girl’s passive role in the scene might be interpreted as a commentary on female expectations within this social context – a display of gentility rather than active participation. Ultimately, the painting presents a complex portrait of domestic life, blending elements of prosperity, duty, and perhaps a touch of ironic observation.