Pride Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The artwork presents a familial grouping of lions within a savanna environment. Here we observe three individuals: two lionesses and a male lion, positioned centrally in the composition. The artist has chosen a horizontal format, emphasizing the breadth of the landscape and the animals presence within it.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – ochres, golds, and browns – which evoke a sense of heat and aridity characteristic of an African savanna. Light filters through the foliage behind the lions, creating dappled shadows across their forms and adding depth to the scene. The long grass, rendered with meticulous detail, contributes to the overall impression of wildness and untamed nature.
The male lion commands attention as the focal point. His mane is a rich, dark brown, contrasting with the lighter coloration of the lionesses. He gazes directly forward, his expression conveying an air of authority and perhaps even defiance. The two lionesses flank him, their postures suggesting loyalty and protection. Their eyes are directed outward, hinting at vigilance and awareness of the surrounding environment.
The composition suggests a narrative of familial strength and dominance. The positioning of the animals – the male in the center, flanked by his companions – implies a hierarchical structure within the pride. There is an underlying sense of power and territoriality conveyed through their posture and gaze. The artist has skillfully captured not only the physical appearance of these creatures but also something of their inherent character: a quiet confidence born from survival in a challenging ecosystem.
Subtly, the work explores themes of kinship, leadership, and the enduring spirit of wildlife. The dense vegetation framing the scene creates a sense of enclosure, suggesting both protection and potential threat – a constant reality for these animals within their habitat.