Realistic Depictions of Lions

Rembrandt and Rubens both provide excellent examples of artists that portrayed lions to a high level of scientific accuracy. But as is featured in the other parts of the exhibition, both Rembrandt and Rubens still managed to create creative and active scenes while still having realistic lions. It was thought that traveling circuses might have been where Rembrandt was able to observe lions in person (according to Michael Clarke).

Artworks

Rubens Lion.jpg

Etude of a Lion

Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

Drawing, 28.1 x 42.7 cm

Flemish, 1612-1613

British Museum

This drawing of a lion was done by Rubens as a study for his painting "Daniel in the Lions' Den". The lion is seated, looking towards the viewer. The drawing is done on light brown paper, and is colored with black, yellow, and white.

This print was bequeathed to the British Museum by Richard Payne Knight in 1824.

Rembrant sleepy lion.jpg

Lion Asleep, to the Left

Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669)

Drawing, 14.7 x 20.1 cm

Dutch, c.1640

Frits Lugt Collection

This drawing of a lion is associated with Rembrandt's studio, not necessarily himself. The lion is fully laying down, and facing to the left. It is drawn on brown paper with ink.

Rembrandt young lion.jpg

Young Lion Resting

Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669)

Chalk drawing, 11.5 x 15 cm

Dutch, 1638-1642

Leiden Collection

This drawing is done in black and white chalk on brown paper. The young lion's face is highlighted with the white chalk. His paws appear crossed and he is looking towards the left.

Rembrandt Lioness Eating.jpg

A Lioness Devouring a Bird

Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669)

Drawing, 12.6 x 23.9 cm

Dutch, 1638-1642

British Museum

This drawing is of a lioness who has a bird in her front paws. She is facing to the left. The drawing is done in charcoal with white highlights on brown paper.

It was bequeathed by Richard Payne Knight in 1824 to the British Museum.

Rembrandt Chained Lioness.jpg

A Chained Lioness

Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669)

Drawing, 12.5 x 18 cm

Dutch, 1638-1642

British Museum

This drawing of a lioness has her facing towards the right, with her paws crossed. The largest amount of shading is by the chain on her neck.

Rembrandt Lion.jpg

Lion Resting

Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669)

Drawing, 13.8 x 20.7 cm

Dutch, 1640's

Louvre

This drawing of a lion resting, where he is laying towards the left and has a very detailed and realistic face, however his front and back paws are much less detailed and are just outlines in some places.

Realistic Depictions of Lions