First, notice the excellent treatment of still life here. The woodwork, especially, seems true to the touch, with the silvery shine of the wood aged by the hot winds. It is an old house or maybe a barn; glass isn't necessary in this warm climate and the air from the outside freely comes in.
Yet, here are the bars. The air we like; the intruder, we don't. It is against him, the burglar, one who comes in order to steal, that we guard our small possession. Communists, keep out. We got guns.
The nail on which the hare hangs is placed strategically. Perhaps, spiced meats would hang out in its place to dry and cure in the hot sun. Or maybe, garlands of garlic and peppers. This farmer has a peaceful, well organized, happy, self-sufficient, modest and proud life.
This is also a meeting of two animals, one -- once free and now dead and inside, as it is, of a cage, the other --obedient, faithful, intelligent and free to roam outside. A silent conversation is seen in the dog's quizzically twitching nose and the rigor mortis taking hold of the hare's body. Freedom and duty, loyalty and furtive curiosity, death and life are here. Observe. It is a great painting indeed.