lrs Smith B W Princess Adastra r Barry W Smith

The drawing presents a female figure enthroned amidst a macabre landscape. She is centrally positioned and dominates the composition with her commanding presence. Her posture suggests authority; she sits upright, legs crossed, conveying a sense of regal composure despite the unsettling surroundings. The artist has rendered her skin tone in shades of reddish-brown, contrasting sharply with the vibrant red of her voluminous hair which cascades around her shoulders.
The figure’s attire is minimal but elaborate. She wears an ornate breastplate and multiple necklaces crafted from what appears to be gold or a similar precious metal, adorned with spiral motifs. Bands encircle her upper arms, further emphasizing her status and possibly indicating tribal affiliation. Her facial expression is stoic, almost impassive, conveying neither joy nor sorrow; it suggests a detached observation of the scene unfolding around her.
The background is dominated by a dense arrangement of skeletal remains – skulls and bone fragments are scattered across the ground and form part of the throne itself. Above this grim foundation, a starry sky is visible, hinting at a cosmic or otherworldly dimension to the setting. The use of cross-hatching in the rendering of the bones creates texture and depth, while also contributing to an overall feeling of decay and mortality.
Several subtexts emerge from this depiction. The juxtaposition of beauty and death suggests themes of power derived from dominion over life and demise. The figure’s regal bearing amidst such desolation implies a ruler who has conquered or transcended the natural order. The spiral motifs, frequently associated with cyclical time and spiritual journeys, may indicate a connection to ancient rituals or beliefs. The starry sky could symbolize an aspiration towards something beyond the earthly realm, perhaps immortality or divine status.
The drawing’s aesthetic leans toward fantasy illustration, employing exaggerated features and dramatic lighting to create a visually arresting image. It evokes a sense of mystery and invites contemplation on themes of power, mortality, and the relationship between humanity and the cosmos.