AfII 0005 The Lion and The Wild Ass CharlesSantore sqs * Charles Santore (1935-)

The composition presents a scene of predation set within a stylized African landscape. A large lion dominates the foreground, its posture suggesting both power and restraint as it engages with two other animals. The lions mane is rendered in meticulous detail, emphasizing its regal presence. It appears to be restraining one animal while another lies nearby, seemingly incapacitated.
The animal being restrained displays a distinctive striped pattern, reminiscent of a zebra or donkey. Its head is turned towards the viewer, conveying an expression that could be interpreted as distress or resignation. The second animal, positioned closer to the background, possesses a reddish-brown coloration and prominent horns, suggesting an antelope species. It lies prone on the ground, its posture indicating vulnerability.
The artist has employed a limited palette of earth tones – ochre, brown, and muted greens – to establish a sense of aridness and naturalism. The landscape in the background is simplified, with stylized trees silhouetted against a pale sky. This reduction in detail draws attention to the central drama unfolding in the foreground.
The arrangement of the animals creates a visual hierarchy. The lion’s size and placement immediately establish it as the focal point, while the other two creatures are positioned in relation to its dominance. There is an implied narrative here – a moment captured within a larger cycle of life and death. The scene evokes themes of power dynamics, survival, and the inherent brutality of nature, all presented with a degree of stylized elegance.