Genesis Cycle: Creation of the Birds and Fish Jacob Bouttats (1660-1718)

The composition presents a scene of abundant creation, centered around a male figure who appears to be orchestrating the emergence of avian and aquatic life. He stands in a landscape that is both expansive and detailed, his posture suggesting divine authority and active participation in the unfolding spectacle.
Here we see a multitude of birds taking flight across the upper portion of the canvas. Their varied plumage – greens, yellows, browns – creates a dynamic visual texture against the backdrop of a distant mountain range shrouded in atmospheric haze. The mountains themselves are rendered with considerable detail, their rocky faces and verdant slopes contributing to the sense of depth and scale within the scene.
Below, a teeming body of water is populated by an array of fish species. Their forms are meticulously depicted, showcasing a keen observation of natural anatomy. These aquatic creatures appear to be rising from or swimming just beneath the surface of the water, further emphasizing the theme of creation ex nihilo. The ground itself is uneven and textured, covered in vegetation and scattered with more birds and animals. An ostrich stands prominently near the central figure, its long neck adding a vertical element to the composition.
The male figure’s attire – a flowing red robe – immediately draws attention. He gestures outwards with both hands, as if releasing or blessing the creatures around him. A halo encircles his head, solidifying his role as a divine agent. The light source seems to emanate from this central figure, illuminating the surrounding elements and creating a sense of sacredness.
The artist’s choice of subject matter implies a narrative of genesis – the creation of life forms within a primordial world. Beyond the literal depiction of birds and fish, there is an underlying subtext concerning order and abundance. The careful arrangement of figures and objects suggests a deliberate design, implying that this proliferation of life is not random but part of a larger, divinely ordained plan. The inclusion of diverse species hints at the richness and complexity inherent in creation itself. The dark border framing the scene isolates the narrative, intensifying its focus and creating an impression of timelessness.