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A woman holds a plate of fish and turns to smile at the viewer in this genre scene after Dutch painter Gabriel Metsu (1629-1667). The original is held by the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, and is one of four similar compositions of attractive women displaying meat and vegetables that Metsu painted in the mid-1650s. Scholars have suggested that these works are erotic allusions. Maids were frequently associated with promiscuity, and the plate of fish - which she displays openly towards the viewer - alludes to the 'voluptas carnis'. Additionally, the dead game hanging on the wall behind may be intended to evoke the story of Diana and Actaeon, which was frequently interpreted in seventeenth century Dutch visual culture as a warning against succumbing to sensual pleasure. More literally, her bare arms would also have been viewed as sexually suggestive. Well presented in a swept gilt frame with ornate floral corner designs. Unsigned. On board.
Condition
Signs of wear consistent with age including discolouration and craquelure. Inspection under UV light reveals no restoration. Some cracking to the frame ornamentation, resulting in some small losses. Areas of restoration to the frame.
Size
33.5 x 28cm (13.2" x 11.0")Framed Size: 50 x 45cm (19.7" x 17.7")
