Created:
Movement:
1500
Renaissance
key Notes:
Mythological narrative, dynamic composition.
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Dimensions:
27 3/4 x 66 3/4 in. (70.5 x 169.5 cm)
medium:
Tempera and oil transferred to Masonite
story of the work:

"The Deer Hunt" is a painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Piero di Cosimo, created circa 1494–1500. The work depicts a group of hunters pursuing deer in a lush, wooded landscape, showcasing Piero's interest in nature and the interplay between humans and the environment. The composition is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate details, reflecting the artist's skill in rendering both figures and foliage. The painting is notable for its blend of realism and fantasy, a hallmark of Piero's style. The exact circumstances of its commission and original location are unknown. "The Deer Hunt" is currently housed in the collection of the Museo di Capodimonte in Naples, Italy. The work is often interpreted as a commentary on the relationship between humanity and nature, as well as the themes of hunting and leisure in Renaissance society.

Description of the work:

"The Deer Hunt" by Piero di Cosimo, created circa 1494–1500, depicts a dynamic scene of a hunting party engaged in the pursuit of deer within a lush, verdant landscape. The composition is characterized by a rich palette of greens and browns, which enhances the naturalistic representation of the environment. Figures are rendered with a sense of movement, showcasing a variety of poses that convey the urgency of the hunt. The use of tempera and oil on Masonite allows for a smooth application of color and detail, contributing to the overall clarity of the scene. The background features a dense forest, adding depth and a sense of enclosure to the action taking place in the foreground. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the figures and animals, creating a sense of three-dimensionality. The painting exemplifies Piero di Cosimo's interest in both the natural world and the complexities of human interaction with it.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Deer Hunt