Bird painters from the 17th and 18th century delighted in portraying the characters of cockerels in all their arrogance and assertiveness in ruling the roost, as well as their flamboyant and colourful plumage.

This late 18th century example of a cockerel with chicks and hens is by a follower of Melchior de Hondecoeter (Utrecht c. 1636-1695 Amsterdam).
Hondecoeter trained under his father Gysbert de Hondecoeter, followed by his uncle, Jan Weenix. He specialised in painting wildfowl, poultry and exotic bird species in landscapes, ornamental gardens and farm settings and was a master in capturing movement and drama in his compositions. A floating feather and feathers on the ground became a hallmark of his work and are as meticulously painted as those covering the birds.