The old lion 1910 76.7x63.5cm Charles Frederick Goldie (1870-1947)

The portrait presents a man rendered in a realistic style, set against a dark, indistinct background within an oval frame. He is depicted from the chest upwards, his gaze directed downwards and slightly away from the viewer. The subjects age is evident through the grey streaks interwoven with his short, roughly styled hair, which appears somewhat unkempt.
The most striking feature of this individual is the elaborate facial tattooing that covers a significant portion of his face and neck. These markings are complex in design, employing both geometric patterns and stylized representations. A single feather or quill is inserted into the skin just below his lower lip, adding another layer to his adornment. He wears what appears to be a roughly woven garment, possibly animal hide, which hangs loosely from his shoulders, revealing portions of his upper torso. The texture of this material is meticulously rendered, suggesting an intentional emphasis on its raw and natural quality.
The lighting in the painting is dramatic, highlighting the contours of the man’s face and emphasizing the details of his tattoos and clothing. Shadows are deep and pervasive, contributing to a sense of solemnity and introspection. The background appears to be constructed from rough-hewn stone or wood, further reinforcing an impression of antiquity and perhaps a connection to a primal environment.
Subtly, there is a feeling of weariness conveyed through the man’s posture and expression. While his gaze isnt overtly sorrowful, it suggests a weight of experience and possibly resignation. The tattoos, beyond their decorative function, could be interpreted as markers of status, lineage, or significant life events – a visual record of a complex history. The feather in his lip might signify mourning, leadership, or spiritual connection. Overall, the painting evokes themes of age, wisdom, cultural identity, and perhaps a sense of loss or reflection on a past era.