The Crossing Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The composition presents a vast landscape dominated by a large herd of animals traversing a riverbank. The scene unfolds across a broad expanse, with undulating hills forming a backdrop that recedes into atmospheric perspective. A palpable sense of scale is established through the sheer number of creatures involved in this migration and the immensity of the terrain they navigate.
The foreground is defined by a steep embankment composed of earth and sparse vegetation. This incline serves as a visual barrier, separating the viewer from the main action occurring along the rivers edge. The animals – primarily wildebeest, judging by their form – are densely packed, creating a flowing mass that obscures individual details. Their movement generates a visible cloud of dust, further emphasizing the scale and intensity of the crossing.
A solitary, bare tree stands prominently in the midground, its stark silhouette contrasting with the teeming life below. A bird of prey circles above this tree, adding an element of predatory tension to the scene. The river itself is rendered with muted tones, reflecting the overcast sky and contributing to a sense of subdued drama.
The artist’s use of light and shadow creates depth and texture within the landscape. The hills in the distance are softened by atmospheric haze, while the foreground retains greater clarity and detail. This technique draws attention to the immediate action and reinforces the feeling of vastness beyond.
Subtly embedded within this depiction is a commentary on cycles of life and death. The sheer number of animals suggests abundance, yet their vulnerability as they cross the river – potentially facing predators or drowning – hints at fragility. The circling bird underscores this precariousness. The dust kicked up by the herd could be interpreted as symbolizing disruption, change, or even the relentless passage of time. Ultimately, the painting conveys a powerful sense of natures raw power and the constant interplay between survival and peril within an ecosystem.