Lassen, Christian Riese – Five Dolphins (end Christian Riese Lassen

The artwork presents a scene submerged in water, dominated by a cool blue palette that evokes depth and tranquility. Here we see five cetaceans – likely dolphins – in dynamic motion across the composition. They are positioned at varying distances from the viewer, creating a sense of spatial recession into the watery expanse. The foremost dolphin is centrally located, its form rendered with considerable detail, highlighting the play of light on its skin. This central figure appears to be leaping or breaking the surface, suggesting energy and vitality.
The other dolphins are less sharply defined, appearing as more fluid shapes within the surrounding environment. They contribute to a sense of movement and collective behavior, hinting at a pod dynamic. A school of smaller fish is visible in the background, adding scale and reinforcing the impression of an underwater ecosystem. The presence of seaweed or aquatic vegetation along the lower edge of the frame grounds the scene and provides textural contrast against the smooth bodies of the dolphins.
Light plays a crucial role in shaping the visual experience. Shafts of light penetrate from above, illuminating certain areas while leaving others shrouded in shadow. This creates a dramatic effect, emphasizing the three-dimensionality of the underwater space and contributing to an ethereal atmosphere. The artist has skillfully employed this lighting to suggest both realism and a sense of wonder.
Beyond the immediate depiction of marine life, the painting seems to explore themes of freedom, grace, and the beauty of the natural world. The dolphins’ energetic movements convey a feeling of uninhibited joy and fluidity, while their presence in an aquatic environment evokes a sense of mystery and otherness. The composition invites contemplation on the fragility of these ecosystems and the importance of preserving them. The dark borders surrounding the image further isolate the scene, emphasizing its inherent beauty and creating a contemplative space for the viewer.