Mountain Myth Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The artwork presents a scene dominated by a rugged mountain landscape and its inhabitant – a large feline predator. The composition is structured around a steep, rocky outcrop that occupies the foreground, extending diagonally across the frame. Patches of snow cling to the rocks, suggesting a high-altitude environment experiencing seasonal cold. Behind this immediate terrain, a range of mountains rises into a hazy sky, their peaks dusted with more snow and rendered in softer focus, creating a sense of depth.
The artist has employed a realistic style, meticulously detailing the textures of both the rock formations and the animal’s fur. The lighting is dramatic; warm tones illuminate the foreground rocks and the felines coat, contrasting sharply with the cooler blues and grays of the distant mountains. This selective illumination draws immediate attention to the predator, emphasizing its presence within this harsh environment.
The feline itself is positioned centrally but slightly off-kilter, contributing to a dynamic feel. Its gaze appears directed outward, suggesting alertness and vigilance. The animal’s camouflage – a mottled pattern of dark spots against lighter fur – is strikingly effective, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding rocks. This visual integration reinforces its role as an integral part of this mountainous ecosystem.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a natural scene, the painting evokes themes of resilience and survival. The harshness of the environment underscores the challenges faced by both the animal and any life that manages to thrive there. There is also a sense of mystery; the feline’s watchful posture hints at an unseen world beyond the viewers perspective – a realm governed by instinct and adaptation. The work might be interpreted as a meditation on the power and beauty of nature, and the delicate balance between predator and prey within a fragile ecosystem.