The Fox and the Turkey Hens: Illustration for the Fables of La Fontaine (1733)

Jean-Baptiste Oudry's painting "The Fox and the Turkey Hens" is a captivating visual narrative that reflects the artist's endeavor to illustrate the timeless fables of Jean de La Fontaine. Created in 1733, this artwork serves as a remarkable example of Oudry's skill in encapsulating moral stories through vibrant and expressive imagery.In this nocturnal scene, the artist masterfully uses shades of blues and greys to set a moonlit background. Under the gentle glow of the moon, a cunning fox is depicted in the midst of a deceptive performance aimed at catching the unwary turkey hens. The fox, rendered with dynamic brushstrokes, appears in a pose that suggests both motion and a hint of slyness, as it looks upwards toward its intended prey.Above, on the gnarled branches of an old tree, three turkey hens seem unaware of the imminent danger as they perch sleepily. Their placement high in the tree juxtaposes their natural vulnerability with the slight safety offered by the height, adding a layer of tension to the scene.In the backdrop, the silhouette of a rustic house, possibly a farmhouse, reinforces the setting of a countryside where such fables often unfold, bridging the human and animal worlds.Oudry’s work is not just a visual pleasure but also a narrative piece that invites viewers to reflect on themes of deceit, trust, and survival, which are recurrent in La Fontaine's fables.