Beauty in Death
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A couple of days ago my cat brought in a live mouse but by the time I got it from her it was dead, probably of shock as it wasn’t marked. I wrapped it in the leaf you see here and was going to bring it outside and thought it looked beautiful so I thought I’d immortalise it with photography. I think low-key suits this subject as it adds drama to the image. I wonder what people think about me photographing a dead animal?
I’m sure you’ll tell me !
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This is a stunning photography, very beautiful, and morally, you’re no worse than John James Audubon, anyway! You didn’t harm the mouse, you honor it.
In fact Audubon helped himself to bird’s eggs .. so not good in that regard. Thanks for your words Scilla.
for some strange reason I can’t see the picture. May be my computer playing up, I’ll try looking again later
I wonder if you managed to get back to see the picture caroline?
It is beautiful but it makes me sad that it was killed.
I know I felt like that too Rachael.. my cat is a great hunter and I know I don’t like to have mice in the house. I often find half eaten mice at the bottom of the stairs.. she leaves them there for my approval!
She is obviously very good at it. I don’t like to have mice in the house either. Rats even less, but then I am lucky enough never to have had the latter to contend with (hope I haven’t just jinxed myself!). But the little wood mice in the garden are delightful, as pretty as any other furry thing and not at all interested in coming indoors.
Helen, I have photographed many dead animals. This really is quite beautiful. Tender.
Thanks Karen.. tender is such a lovely word to use.
Helen, this is a very well executed image, great lighting, colour and it does have a dramatic feel. I think the image stands on its own so I have no issues with the back story.
Thanks Adrian.. I appreciate your thoughts..
I prefer live creatures but I see what you’re saying. He is a beautiful little chap and the choice of an autumnal leaf as a bier is inspired. I’m sure he’ll be happy to be carried off to murine Valhalla on that
Beautifully put Finn !
Oh dear, this is wonderful photograph but yes so sad too… Thank you, love, nia
Thank you for your kind words Nia..
I think this is a beautiful photo Helen. It squeaks volumes. Now Mouse has immortality, and your cat will be totally bewildered.
Thanks Ziggy.. poor mouse though I admit I do nto like them in the house!
Oh dear, you have a psychokitteh too
My beloved cat Kisa is a great hunter Rosie.. what can I say .. it is what they do..
This image took my breath away in it’s respect and beauty.
Thank you Elena.. I thought it was beautiful but wasn’t sure if I should post it.. I took a couple of other different ones which I am deciding whether I will post or not .
Just gorgeous….and the fact that you had the presence of mind to record the poor mite….great shot.
Thanks John.. I did take a few ( in that obsessive way of mine when I am focused ) and may post another couple..
Would never have thought to make a bed for it to lie on…..and we had a little mouse die on our drive a few weeks ago….I snapped it, but only on the ground….looking forward to the embalming…
Are You Serious …. This Is Awesome … Love IT ~~ Love IT ~~ GReat SHot , <3 INspiring art ………
Gosh thanks Parth.. I think you liked it
Pingback: Beauty in Death – revisited. « Helen's Photomania Blog
Dead leaf, dead mouse – a classic still life (death) photograph. Sensitive, honouring and very beautiful – no blame – painters have been doing this for centuries…
thank you John.. for your lovely words..