Servants Washing a Deer, c. 1775.

Source: Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Collection.

What has been described to be an “unusual scene,” Brunias depicts a small group of domestic slaves washing a deer. It is important to note that deer are not native to the Caribbean, so it is most likely the master’s pet. In his works, Brunias sensitively elects the term “servant” rather than “slave.” The figure at the head of the deer is notably dressed more ornately than the others, as she is wearing an embroidered skirt, a cotton blouse with a waistcoat, and slippers. This suggests that she is the head domestic slave, perhaps a mistress, and bears authority over the other slaves.