Stalemate Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The composition presents a dramatic confrontation unfolding within a vast, arid landscape. Here we observe a large buffalo locked in a struggle with a lion; the scene is one of intense physical engagement and apparent deadlock. The buffalo, rendered in dark, earthy tones, appears to be attempting to dislodge the lion clinging to its horns. Dust and debris are kicked up around their bodies, suggesting the ferocity of the encounter. A second, smaller lion lurks nearby, partially obscured by the buffalo’s bulk, adding a sense of predatory presence and potential for further escalation.
The artist has employed a muted palette dominated by ochres, browns, and tans, which contributes to the overall feeling of dryness and harshness inherent in the environment. The light source appears diffuse, casting soft shadows that flatten the forms somewhat and emphasize the flatness of the terrain. This lack of strong contrast reinforces the sense of an unrelenting, almost monotonous landscape.
The placement of the animals within the frame is significant. They occupy a central position, drawing immediate attention to their struggle. The horizon line sits relatively low, expanding the visual space behind them and emphasizing the buffalo’s isolation within this expansive environment. This vastness underscores the precariousness of its situation; it is not merely battling an individual predator but facing the inherent challenges of survival in a hostile ecosystem.
Beyond the immediate depiction of predation, the painting evokes broader themes of power dynamics and resilience. The stalemate itself – the apparent inability of either animal to gain a decisive advantage – suggests a complex interplay of strength and vulnerability. It is not simply a narrative of predator versus prey but rather an exploration of the forces that shape survival in a natural world governed by struggle and adaptation. The presence of the second lion hints at a larger, unseen network of threats, further emphasizing the buffalo’s precarious position within this ecosystem.