Ae 48 Waterbuck Simon Combes sqs Simon Combes (1940-2004)

Here we observe a depiction of an animal within a natural setting, rendered with meticulous detail and a focus on light and texture. The central figure is a large ungulate, its form dominating the foreground. Its coat displays a rich palette of browns and tans, meticulously shaded to suggest depth and musculature. A distinctive white stripe runs along its flank, providing a visual contrast against the darker tones of its body. The animal’s horns are prominent, curving upwards with an elegant arc; they appear well-maintained and substantial.
The setting is characterized by dry grassland, rendered in varying shades of yellow and ochre. Sparse vegetation, including thorny bushes, occupies the midground, creating a sense of depth and enclosure. A bright light source, likely representing the sun, illuminates the scene from above and to the right, casting shadows that define form and add dimensionality. The light creates a hazy atmosphere, softening the edges of distant elements and contributing to an overall feeling of warmth.
The artist’s technique emphasizes realism; individual blades of grass are discernible, and the texture of the animals fur is convincingly portrayed. This level of detail suggests an intention to capture not just the appearance but also the essence of the subject and its environment.
Subtly, the composition evokes a sense of solitude and quiet observation. The animal’s posture – turned slightly away from the viewer – implies a cautious awareness of its surroundings. It is presented as a creature existing within a vast, untamed landscape. This positioning invites contemplation on themes of wilderness, survival, and the relationship between wildlife and their habitat. The limited color palette reinforces this feeling of natural austerity, while the strong light source suggests both vitality and potential vulnerability.