Jean-Baptiste Oudry – Still-life (hare, duck, bottles, bread, and cheese) Part 4 Louvre

The composition presents a meticulously arranged still life, dominated by a suspended hare and accompanied by various foodstuffs and vessels. The arrangement is set against a neutral grey backdrop, framed by a subtle arch that draws attention upwards towards the central figure of the hare.
Here we see the hare positioned centrally, hanging from a cord, its fur rendered with remarkable detail, capturing both texture and light. Its posture suggests recent capture, contributing to an overall sense of immediacy. Below it, a duck is similarly suspended, though less prominent than the hare. The presence of these game animals immediately establishes a theme of abundance and sustenance, likely associated with aristocratic or wealthy patronage.
The lower portion of the painting showcases a selection of provisions: three bottles of varying shapes and colors – two dark amber and one green – are placed alongside a loaf of bread, a wedge of cheese resting on a small paper doily, and what appears to be a piece of cured meat. The careful placement of these items suggests not merely sustenance but also an appreciation for the finer aspects of dining. Light plays across their surfaces, highlighting their textures and contributing to the overall realism of the scene.
The artist’s attention to detail is striking; each object is rendered with precision, demonstrating a mastery of technique and observation. The subtle gradations in color and tone create a sense of depth and volume, enhancing the illusion of three-dimensionality.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of food and game, subtexts relating to wealth, status, and the cycle of life and death are subtly implied. The presentation of hunted animals alongside provisions suggests a celebration of the hunt and its rewards. The careful arrangement and rendering of each element speak to an appreciation for beauty and refinement, indicative of a privileged lifestyle. The inclusion of both living (the game) and prepared food items hints at the transient nature of existence and the inevitability of consumption.