Home > Arts > Artists > H > Melchior de Hondecoeter
Two Peacocks Threatening a Hen with Chicks, Known as ‘The Threatened Hen, 1681. Creator: Melchior d'Hondecoeter
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Two Peacocks Threatening a Hen with Chicks, Known as ‘The Threatened Hen, 1681. Creator: Melchior d'Hondecoeter
Two Peacocks Threatening a Hen with Chicks, Known as The Threatened Hen, 1681
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36315246
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Biology Chick Chicken Defense Defensive Dhondecoeter Melchior Hondecoeter Melchior D Hondecoeter Melchior De Melchior D Hondecoeter Melchior Dhondecoeter Natural History Ornithology Parent Peacock Protect Protected Protection Protective Threat Threatening Wildlife
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Art Movements
> Baroque
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Melchior de Hondecoeter
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Oil paintings
> Animal portraits
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Oil paintings
> Portrait paintings
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Oil paintings
> Wildlife paintings
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Animal portraits
> Animal artwork
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Animal portraits
> Fine art
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Animal portraits
> Wildlife art
EDITORS COMMENTS
The Threatened Hen," a captivating oil painting by Melchior d'Hondecoeter from the 17th century, presents a striking tableau of intrigue and protective instincts among birds. In this masterpiece, two regal peacocks, adorned with iridescent plumage, loom over a hen and her chicks, their wings spread wide in a display of intimidation. The hen, with feathers ruffled and eyes fixed on the peacocks, stands her ground, shielding her young with her body. This painting, created in the Baroque era, is a testament to the natural history and ornithology of the Low Countries during this time. Melchior d'Hondecoeter, a Dutch artist renowned for his animal paintings, expertly captures the essence of these birds and their behaviors. The close-up perspective invites the viewer to examine the intricate details of the feathers and the expressions of the birds, bringing the scene to life. The image conveys a sense of drama and tension, as the peacocks threaten the hen and her chicks. However, the hen's defensive posture and unwavering gaze suggest that she is not about to back down, even in the face of adversity. This painting offers a glimpse into the complexities of bird behavior and the deep bond between parents and their offspring. A true treasure of European art history, "The Threatened Hen" is a must-see for anyone interested in the natural world, animal portraits, or the Baroque era. This painting, now housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, continues to inspire awe and fascination among art and science enthusiasts alike.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
