Halt of a Hunting Party

A party of elegantly clad hunters pauses in the pursuit of their quarry to rest and water their horses. Wouwerman specialized in small scenes that depict imaginary views. Characteristic of Dutch conventions, careful and accurate attention was given to the anatomical rendering of the horses and dogs. These works were conceived as pleasing decoration for the homes of the wealthier middle class. Thus, the location and subjects are purely imaginary, meant to evoke a sentiment, not a specific time or event.