Fuglefangst 1667

Claudine Bouzonnet Stella created this print titled "Fuglefangst," which translates to "Bird Catching," in the 17th century, a time when women artists often navigated constraints within the art world. Here, Stella offers us a glimpse into a common hunting practice. We see figures, partially concealed, awaiting their feathered prey. To the right, a large net is visibly capturing birds in a wide landscape. This idyllic scene belies the disruption of nature and the capture of these small creatures. Consider Stella's position as a woman in a male-dominated era. While depicting a traditional hunting scene, was she also commenting on the constraints and expectations placed upon women? Stella's work invites us to reflect on our relationship with the natural world and the hidden power dynamics within seemingly simple scenes.