Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Slumped against a wall with pipe in hand, he’s drunk. In fact, everyone’s a little drunk, but he’s the drunkest.
He’s standing proud while the other is away with the fairies.
Given that 17th-century Dutch scenes are usually brimming with symbolism, can you imagine what it all means? Perhaps stop reading for a while and consider the licentious implications of this little tale…
Ready? Well, the underlying metaphor of ‘the hunt’ relates to the pursuit of women - and various Dutch texts refer to ‘vogelen’ (to bird) as a euphemism for intercourse. So given that, what do you make of it now? He’s unable to ‘bird’, so his friendly comrade is happy to step in. And over on the right, there’s his wife holding an empty cup.
Perhaps the dog’s knowing expression says it best of all.
It’s also interesting to note that the main character, the drunk, is understood to be a self portrait.
Signed in plate and held within a contemporary glazed frame.
Medium: Engraving on hand-laid paper
Overall size: 18½” x 22” / 47cm x 56cm
Year of creation: c. 1770
Labels & Inscriptions: Lettered in lower margin with title and production details: "Gab. Metzu Pinxit" and "Pelletier Sculp." and "Gravé d'après le Tableau Original de Gabriel Metzu".
Condition: Artwork presents well.
Jean Pelletier's works are held in numerous public collections including at the British Museum, Met Museum, and National Gallery of Art.
Learn more about Jean Pelletier in our directory.
Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Exquisite antique paintings that capture the imagination.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Brave Fine Art Profile Page
Jean Pelletier After Gerard Metsu, the Sleeping Sportsman - Antique Engraving
