#52606 Germany

The sculpture presents a female figure reclining upon a lion, rendered in white marble against a dark background. The woman is positioned at a diagonal, her body turned towards the viewer with a contemplative gaze directed upwards and slightly off-center. Her posture suggests both relaxation and alertness; one arm rests casually on the lion’s head, while the other supports her upper torso. A loosely draped cloth partially covers her lower body, revealing the contours of her legs and feet. The artist has meticulously detailed the musculature of both the woman and the lion, conveying a sense of physical strength and vitality.
The lion itself is depicted with an almost human-like serenity, its mouth slightly open as if in a silent roar or sigh. It appears to be supporting the weight of the woman comfortably, suggesting a symbiotic relationship rather than dominance or subjugation. The drapery cascading from the lion’s back adds visual complexity and contributes to the overall sense of movement within the static form.
The composition evokes themes of power, beauty, and perhaps even dominion over nature. The juxtaposition of the female figure with the powerful animal suggests a symbolic representation of control or harmony between humanity and the wild. The womans gaze, directed beyond the immediate scene, implies a broader narrative or philosophical consideration. Her expression is not one of triumph but rather of quiet observation, hinting at an understanding that transcends mere physical power.
The monochromatic palette emphasizes the form and texture of the sculpture, allowing for a focus on the interplay of light and shadow across the surfaces. The stark background isolates the figures, intensifying their symbolic weight and inviting contemplation about their meaning within a larger context.