A Slaughtered Ox
1640
oil
From the collection of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1640
oil
From the collection of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
The painting depicts a slaughtered ox hanging from a wooden beam, its skin removed to reveal the flesh underneath. The ox's head is positioned downwards, and its legs are splayed outwards. In the background, there is a wall with a window and a door, which adds depth to the scene. The overall atmosphere of the painting is somber and muted, with a focus on the textures and tones of the ox's flesh and the surrounding environment. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark, adds a sense of drama and tension to the painting. The artist's attention to detail and ability to capture the subtleties of light and shadow create a sense of realism and immediacy. To learn more about the artist behind this painting, look up Carel Fabritius.
