Wilhelm Goebel – SK Wildlife Federation Card-Bear, De Wilhelm Goebel

Here we observe a scene depicting a large bear traversing a swiftly flowing river. The composition is dominated by the animals imposing presence; it occupies the central foreground, its form rendered with meticulous detail in shades of brown and grey, suggesting dense fur and substantial musculature. The bear appears to be wading through the water, its paws firmly planted on submerged rocks.
The artist has skillfully captured the dynamism of the river itself. Water is portrayed as a turbulent mass of blues and whites, conveying movement and reflecting light with an almost palpable energy. Rocks of varying sizes are scattered throughout the stream bed, adding texture and visual interest to the scene. The waters surface creates a sense of depth, drawing the viewer’s eye into the background.
The landscape beyond the riverbank is rendered in muted earth tones – browns, ochres, and greens – suggesting a late autumn or early spring setting. Sparse vegetation clings to the slopes, hinting at a harsh but resilient environment. The overall palette contributes to a feeling of naturalism and realism.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of wilderness and untamed nature. The bear’s solitary journey across the river speaks to independence and survival in a challenging habitat. Theres an implicit narrative of resilience; the animal navigates the rushing water with apparent ease, embodying strength and adaptability. The composition also evokes a sense of awe and respect for wildlife, suggesting a reverence for the natural world and its inhabitants. The dark borders surrounding the image further emphasize this feeling of isolation and immersion within the depicted environment.