Nicolaes Maes, Dutch (active Amsterdam and Dordrecht), 1634-1693 – Woman Plucking a Duck Philadelphia Museum of Art

The composition presents a domestic interior, bathed in a subdued light emanating primarily from a window on the left side. A young woman occupies the foreground, seated on a low bench or ledge. She is engaged in the task of plucking a duck, her attention focused intently on the bird held in her lap. Her attire consists of a simple white blouse and a red bodice, topped with a starched linen cap – typical of Dutch domesticity.
The setting appears to be a modest kitchen or storage area. The walls are rendered in dark tones, contrasting sharply with the vibrant red-tiled floor that dominates the lower portion of the scene. A window reveals glimpses of an exterior landscape, though details remain indistinct due to the dimness and distance. A doorway is visible on the right side, leading into a darker space beyond.
Scattered around the woman are various implements associated with food preparation: a large pot, a colander, a small dish containing what appear to be chopped vegetables, and a wooden bucket. A plucked duck lies near her feet alongside several loose feathers and fallen fruit – likely apples – adding to the sense of everyday activity. A small dog sits attentively nearby, seemingly observing the scene.
The artist’s use of chiaroscuro is notable; the strong contrast between light and shadow creates a palpable atmosphere of quiet introspection. The womans face is partially obscured by shadow, lending her an air of melancholy or perhaps resignation. This subdued lighting also draws attention to the textures – the roughness of the duck feathers, the smoothness of the ceramic objects on the windowsill, the sheen of the tiled floor.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of domestic labor, the painting suggests subtle subtexts concerning themes of sustenance and survival within a humble household. The act of plucking a duck is not presented as glamorous or celebratory but rather as a necessary chore – a visual representation of the realities of daily life for many in this period. The dog’s presence introduces an element of companionship, hinting at the emotional bonds that existed within these domestic spaces. Ultimately, the work offers a glimpse into the quiet dignity and understated beauty of everyday existence.