Final answer:
Pieter Bruegel the Elder's 'Hunters in the Snow' painting depicts the hardships and enjoyments of winter and everyday life. It reflects genre painting of peasants and landscapes, showing human resilience and activity in the cold season.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject matter of 'Pieter Bruegel the Elder's painting 'Hunters in the Snow' is multifaceted, encompassing the hardships and enjoyments of winter, the rhythm of the seasons, and the everyday life activities of the people. Bruegel, a remarkable Northern Renaissance artist, excelled in genre painting which depicted scenes of peasant life and landscapes teeming with both activity and stillness. His paintings were notable for their vivid depictions of everyday life and social characteristics in 16th-century Netherlands.
In 'Hunters in the Snow', we see hunters returning from an expedition, weary and cold—this exemplifies the universal human experience during the harsh winter months. The expansive background reveals activities such as ice skating and labor, highlighting how life continues despite the difficulties brought on by winter. The rich details and activities in the painting provide a glimpse into the resilience and adaptability of human life during different seasons.