J20 The Peaceable Kingdom Beryl Cook

The composition presents a gathering of diverse animal species within a lush, idealized landscape. A central lion reclines peacefully, surrounded by creatures typically considered antagonistic or disparate in nature. To his left stands a large bird with striking plumage, while a boar and fox are positioned nearby. A rabbit and bovine occupy the right side of the scene, seemingly unconcerned by the presence of the predator. A squirrel sits attentively at the base of the lion, adding to the overall sense of tranquility.
Above this assembly, two winged figures float in the sky, their poses suggesting a benevolent observation or blessing upon the gathering below. The background is characterized by dense foliage and rocky formations, creating depth and framing the central group. A soft, diffused light illuminates the scene, contributing to its dreamlike quality.
The arrangement of these animals immediately suggests an allegory for harmony and reconciliation. The lion, traditionally symbolizing power and dominance, adopts a posture of passivity, indicating a suspension or transcendence of natural hierarchies. The inclusion of creatures that would normally be preyed upon by others – the rabbit, the boar – implies a deliberate subversion of expected relationships.
The presence of the extinct dodo bird introduces an element of melancholy and loss, perhaps hinting at the fragility of such idealized states or serving as a commentary on human impact on the natural world. The winged figures in the sky could be interpreted as representing divine intervention or a utopian ideal – a realm where conflict is absent and all beings coexist peacefully.
The artist’s meticulous rendering of each animal, combined with the carefully constructed landscape, conveys a sense of order and control. This deliberate construction reinforces the paintings thematic focus on an artificial, yet desired, state of equilibrium. The overall effect is one of serene contemplation, inviting reflection on themes of peace, coexistence, and the potential for harmony within a complex world.