#11141 Roelandt Jacobsz Savery (1576-1639)

The composition presents a densely populated landscape dominated by a rocky outcrop teeming with avian life. A large ostrich occupies the central foreground, its form anchoring the scene and drawing immediate attention. Several other birds – ducks, swans, and what appears to be a pheasant – cluster around it, creating a sense of chaotic activity and abundance. The artist has rendered these creatures with considerable detail, emphasizing their plumage and individual postures.
To the left, dense foliage obscures much of the background, suggesting an impenetrable wilderness. A small plaque is affixed to this rocky face, its inscription illegible but hinting at a narrative or symbolic element beyond what is visually apparent.
The right side of the painting opens onto a more expansive vista. Here we see a body of water, reflecting the muted light of the sky. Several white animals – likely sheep or goats – graze peacefully near the waters edge, contrasting with the frenetic energy of the birds on the rocks. A small waterfall cascades down from higher ground, adding another layer to the landscape’s complexity and suggesting a cycle of renewal.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing earth tones – browns, greens, and grays – which contribute to a somber, almost melancholic atmosphere. The light source appears diffuse, casting soft shadows and minimizing harsh contrasts. This subdued lighting enhances the sense of depth within the scene and directs focus towards the central grouping of birds.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of natural abundance juxtaposed with potential vulnerability. The profusion of life on the rocky outcrop could be interpreted as a symbol of prosperity or fertility, while the precariousness of the animals’ positions – the ostrich seemingly poised for flight, the other birds in various states of agitation – suggests an underlying sense of instability and threat. The presence of the plaque introduces an element of mystery, implying that there is more to this scene than meets the eye; perhaps a hidden meaning or cautionary tale embedded within the depiction of nature’s bounty.