The Hunter’s Present, Gabriël Metsu, c. 1658 - c. 1661
oil on canvas, h 51cm × w 48cm More details
This woman, engaged in handiwork, ponders a romantic proposition. She looks thoughtfully at the bird presented to her by a hopeful hunter. In the 17th century, ‘birding’ was a euphemism for making love. Hence, the statuette of Cupid, the god of love, graces the cupboard. Caught between faith and pleasure, she hesitates – her eyes on the fowl, yet reaches for the prayer book on the table.
