PO ExtAn 056 Cervus elaphus corsicanus PO_Extinct_Animals

The composition presents a stark contrast between foreground and background, dominated by a warm, saturated orange hue. Here we see three deer silhouetted against this luminous backdrop; a stag with prominent antlers stands slightly ahead of two smaller deer, presumably a doe and a fawn. The animals are positioned on a low-lying ridge or hillock, their forms sharply defined against the diffused light.
A bare tree, also rendered in silhouette, rises prominently to the right of the composition, its branches reaching upwards and partially obscuring the sky. Its presence adds a sense of scale and emphasizes the isolation of the scene. The absence of foliage on the tree suggests dormancy or perhaps a symbolic representation of resilience in harsh conditions.
The artist’s choice to depict the subjects entirely in silhouette creates an immediate sense of mystery and anonymity. Details are absent, allowing for multiple interpretations. The stags antlers, however, become a focal point, suggesting strength, dominance, and possibly protection. The grouping of the deer implies familial bonds and vulnerability within their environment.
The pervasive orange light evokes feelings of warmth, but also potentially of sunset or twilight – a liminal space between day and night. This ambiguity contributes to the painting’s overall mood, which is one of quiet contemplation and a sense of timelessness. The lack of detail encourages viewers to project their own narratives onto the scene, fostering an emotional connection with the depicted wildlife.
Subtly, theres a suggestion of fragility within this powerful imagery. While the stag appears imposing, his silhouette against the overwhelming light hints at a precarious existence, dependent on the environment and vulnerable to unseen forces. The painting speaks to themes of nature, survival, and the delicate balance between strength and vulnerability in the natural world.