Some Northern European painters have translated the story into painting, portraying the Satyr visiting the Man’s house. In this way they translate the original concept of strangeness and distrust inherent in a meal shared between Satyr and Man to modern audiences. The Satyr looks foreign, and fearsome, holding particular sway over the female members of the Man’s household.
Jordaen’s painting portrays the Satyr as nearly naked and wild, and yet he is the one speaking while everyone else, especially the women, are paying close attention. Visually he is a part of the circle of animals, but also a part of the line of humans. He looks intimidating, with his height and his sneer. The Peasant’s wealth, the many animals he surrounds himself with, contrast with the Satyr’s poverty. The Peasant’s family and society is represented by a wide variety of age groups. Jordaen recognized the moral of the story as the duality of humanity. The painting is of the moment when the Satyr denounces the man, but he does not look afraid as much as proud.
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