Who was Pieter Bruegel the Elder?
Unlike his Dutch peers, however, Bruegel did not strictly portray religious subject matter.
And, likeThe Dutch Proverbs, this painting is full of symbolism.
Pieter Bruegel the Elder, “The Fight Between Carnival and Lent (detail),” 1559 (Photo:WikiartPublic Domain)
Together, these characteristics enable Bruegel to explore a real-life eventthe transition from Carnival to Lentin an allegorical way.
Ash Wednesday, in turn, marks the start of Lent, a 40-day observance that concludes with Easter.
The Fight Between Carnival and Lentoccurs on the cusp of Carnival and Ash Wednesday.
Pieter Bruegel the Elder, “The Painter and the Buyer,” 1565 (Photo:Wikimedia CommonsPublic Domain)
Throughout the scene, several Carnival traditions can be spotted.
In the center of the composition, women prepare fish, which is traditionally eaten on Fridays during Lent.
In the foreground, a vendor sells waffles, a customary Lenten food in the Netherlands.
Pieter Bruegel the Elder, “The Fight Between Carnival and Lent,” 1559 (Photo:WikiartPublic Domain)
Set before wintry trees bearing no leaves, the inn represents Carnival.
Likewise, the churchwhich has blossoming trees in its spring-like courtyardstands for Lent.
While drunk merrymakers spill out of the inn, cloaked pious figures emerge from the church.
In the center of the canvas, however, the two parties meet and mix.
Behind him, a man dressed in yellowa Christian symbol of deceitfollows suit.
Lady Lent
Bruegel imagined Lent as a gaunt, mournful woman.
A monk and a nun laboriously pull her cart, and obedient children follow its path.
They appear to be walking toward the inn, with the fool lighting the way using a lit torch.
The powerful compositions, brilliantly organized and controlled, reflect a sophisticated artistic design.
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