Still life with a hanging cockerel and a prowling cat Samuel Dircksz Van Hoogstraten (1627-1678)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a suspended fowl and a feline presence. A white cockerel hangs upside down from a blue ribbon, its plumage meticulously rendered with attention to individual feather detail. The birds head, displaying a vivid red comb, is prominently positioned at the lower edge of the canvas, drawing immediate visual focus. Beneath the hanging fowl lies a small, indistinct chick or fledgling, seemingly discarded or overlooked in the scene’s dynamic.
A cat occupies the upper right quadrant of the painting. Its posture suggests alertness and predatory intent; it observes the suspended cockerel with an unwavering gaze. The animals fur is depicted with subtle variations in tone, conveying a sense of texture and realism. A window is visible behind the cat, allowing diffused light to illuminate the scene and contributing to the overall chiaroscuro effect.
The backdrop consists of heavy, dark drapery that frames the central subjects, intensifying their presence and creating a sense of theatricality. The fabric’s folds are painted with considerable skill, adding depth and volume to the composition. A wooden table or ledge serves as the base for the arrangement, its surface partially obscured by the hanging fowl and draped cloth.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of domestic animals, the painting evokes several layers of meaning. The suspended cockerel, a symbol often associated with masculinity, pride, and dawn’s herald, is presented in a state of vulnerability and powerlessness. This inversion challenges conventional symbolism, potentially suggesting themes of mortality or the fragility of dominance. The cats predatory gaze introduces an element of tension and potential violence, hinting at the natural order of predator and prey. The discarded chick reinforces this sense of loss and impermanence.
The artist’s skillful rendering of textures – the feathers, fur, fabric, and wood – contributes to a heightened realism that invites close scrutiny. The use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the objects, creating a visually compelling and emotionally resonant scene. Overall, the work transcends a simple depiction of everyday objects, offering a nuanced exploration of themes related to life, death, power, and vulnerability.