Roelandt Savery (1576-1639) – Paradise Kunsthistorisches Museum

The composition presents a lush landscape teeming with animal life, bathed in a diffused, golden light emanating from the upper left quadrant. The scene is divided into distinct zones, each contributing to the overall sense of abundance and harmony.
In the foreground, a gathering of animals dominates the view. A bull rests languidly near a stag, while a spotted deer lies nearby. Further back, a lion reclines on a rocky outcrop, observing the other creatures with an air of regal detachment. The grouping suggests a state of peaceful coexistence, devoid of predation or conflict – a key characteristic of idealized pastoral settings.
The middle ground is defined by a cascading waterfall that feeds into a broad river. A variety of waterfowl populate the waters surface, adding movement and vitality to the scene. Beyond the falls, a hillside rises, populated with sheep, deer, and other ungulates. The artist has rendered these animals with meticulous detail, emphasizing their textures and forms.
The background recedes into a hazy distance, where trees become increasingly dense and indistinct. A sense of depth is created through atmospheric perspective, softening the outlines of distant objects and contributing to the overall feeling of vastness. A bright sky, punctuated by scattered clouds, provides a backdrop for the scene, reinforcing the impression of an idyllic setting.
Subtly, the arrangement of animals carries symbolic weight. The lion, traditionally associated with royalty and power, is placed in a position of dominance, yet it does not threaten the other creatures. This suggests a benevolent rule or a natural order where strength is tempered by restraint. The presence of numerous ungulates – deer, sheep, goats – evokes associations with innocence, purity, and abundance. The waterfall itself can be interpreted as a symbol of life-giving sustenance and renewal.
Overall, the painting conveys a vision of an unspoiled world, characterized by harmony between humans (implied but absent) and nature. It is not merely a depiction of animals; it is a representation of a lost or imagined state of grace, where all creatures live in peace and abundance under a benevolent sky.