Salomon van Ruysdael (c. 1602-1670) – Still Life with Turkey Part 5 Louvre

The composition presents a meticulously arranged still life centered around a large turkey as its focal point. The bird dominates the scene, sprawled across a woven basket that sits atop a broad, tiered table. Several other fowl – ducks and what appear to be smaller game birds – are laid out on the table’s surface, their forms carefully positioned to create a sense of abundance and order. A cluster of raw meat hangs from the baskets edge, adding another layer to the display of harvested bounty.
The artist has paid close attention to texture; the feathers of the birds are rendered with remarkable detail, contrasting with the rough weave of the basket and the smooth surface of the table. Light plays across these surfaces, highlighting their materiality and contributing to a sense of realism. A deep red curtain is draped in the upper right corner, providing a backdrop that both frames the arrangement and introduces a touch of theatricality. The muted grey tones of the wall behind further emphasize the vibrancy of the objects displayed.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of game, the painting suggests themes of prosperity and domestic abundance. The sheer quantity of fowl implies a successful hunt or harvest, indicative of wealth and status. The careful arrangement speaks to an appreciation for order and control – qualities valued in the context of early modern Dutch society.
The inclusion of raw meat introduces a subtle element of mortality; it is a reminder that even in displays of plenty, life ends and sustenance comes from taking. This juxtaposition of abundance and transience adds complexity to the work, hinting at deeper philosophical considerations about human existence and our relationship with nature. The overall effect is one of controlled opulence, inviting contemplation on themes of wealth, consumption, and the cyclical nature of life.