Young Royal Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The artwork presents a young lioness reclining in a natural setting. The composition is dominated by warm tones – ochre, amber, and muted browns – which contribute to a sense of tranquility and heat. The animal occupies the central space, positioned slightly off-center to create visual interest. She rests on dry grasses, their texture meticulously rendered with fine lines that suggest both fragility and resilience. Behind her, dense foliage forms a backdrop, its leaves depicted in varying shades of green and brown, creating depth and obscuring any clear horizon line. The sky above is painted with soft gradations of color, hinting at either sunrise or sunset, further enhancing the overall atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
The artist’s attention to detail is evident in the rendering of the lionesss fur – each strand appears individually defined, conveying a sense of realism and tactile quality. Her gaze is directed towards the left, suggesting alertness and awareness of her surroundings. The posture itself communicates a feeling of relaxed power; she embodies both strength and vulnerability within her environment.
Subtly, the work explores themes of youth, potential, and the inherent dignity of wildlife. The lioness’s age implies a future yet to be realized – a period of growth and learning. Her solitary position might suggest independence or perhaps a temporary separation from her pride, evoking feelings of solitude and self-reliance. The surrounding landscape reinforces this sense of isolation while simultaneously emphasizing the animals connection to its natural habitat.
The absence of human presence contributes to the painting’s contemplative mood, allowing the viewer to focus solely on the lioness and her immediate environment. This deliberate exclusion could be interpreted as a commentary on the importance of preserving wild spaces and respecting the autonomy of animals within their ecosystems. The overall effect is one of quiet beauty and understated power, inviting reflection on the delicate balance between strength and fragility in the natural world.