Roosters in Western paintings

Diogenes, by Ugo da Carpi, 1520-30 [Photo/Artron.net]

This artwork depicts the Greek philosopher Diogenes, seated on his barrel and reading from an open book near his feet while a plucked hen stands at right.

Diogenes lived a very plain life and all he owned was a barrel, a cloak, a stick and a bread bag. The chicken at right is a reference to his mocking response to Plato's definition of man as a featherless biped. Diogenes is said to have presented a plucked chicken, saying, "Here is Plato's man!"