サザビーズのインスタグラム(sothebys) - 5月27日 17時59分

A lost work brought back to life. Decoding the symbolism in this stunning Old Master Painting:
Old Master paintings from the #DutchGoldenage, particularly those showing interior scenes (called ‘genre’ paintings in the West), are often loaded with symbolism. Some of the symbols are relatively easy to read, but some may be more difficult to decode because they relate to a different time and culture. Take a look with us at this exceptional work by Jacob Ochtervelt, a contemporary of Johannes #Vermeer, which includes lots of intriguing symbols.
Looted during the Second World War and missing for over 70 years, Jacob Ochtervelt’s The Oyster Meal was recently identified hanging in London's historic Mansion House, home to the Mayor of the city. A contemporary of Vermeer, Ochtervelt was one of the leading Dutch 17th century painters of 'genre scenes' (or scenes of domestic life). This painting, like others of the period, is rich in symbolism. In it you will see:
A dish of oysters: Considered a powerful aphrodisiac, #oysters have long been associated with love and with sensual pleasure.
A well-dressed lady: Ochtervelt is widely celebrated for his exceptional ability to capture the sheen of fabrics. The expensive clothes worn by this elegantly-dressed lady suggest that her suitor might have to pay handsomely for her favours.
A dog: Dogs most often appear in western art as symbols of faithfulness, vigilance and watchfulness. This #dog, however, is lapping up the wine being spilt from his mistress's glass, and therefore cannot be relied upon to protect her honour... An empty birdcage: Birds in Dutch art of this period are closely associated with physical intercourse. (Not least because in old Dutch slang, the word ‘bird’ was actually used to mean intercourse!) In this picture, the bird has flown the cage, possibly indicating that this may not be the first time the lady in the painting has received overtures like this…

Ochtervelt's the Oyster Meal is currently on view at Sotheby's in Hong Kong. See it there, or in London from 30th June to 4th July.
#Dutchgoldenage #oldmasters #hongkong #london #sothebys #sothebysmasters

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