Still Life - Dead Ducks and a Hare with a Basket and a Sprig of Holly

Emily Stannard's game paintings were highly praised by the local press. This composition shows wares arranged in the window of a Norwich butcher's shop - the sign 'C[illegible] / Licensed dealer in GAME' is visible in the top right of the painting. The painting includes an abundance of dead game, but also incongruous elements that may hint at a hidden meaning. Both the robin and holly are associated with Christmas, but some Christian symbolism also connects the red breast and prickly leaves with the Passion of Christ. Curiously, the butcher's shop sign, with the tower of St Peter Mancroft church behind it, is also shaped like a cross.