Lion and Tiger in Combat 1885 - 1886

"Lion and Tiger in Combat" is an ink drawing by Belgian artist James Ensor, created in 1885-1886. Ensor was known for his use of expressive lines and a focus on themes of darkness, grotesquerie and the human condition, and this drawing reflects those influences. The work depicts two animals locked in a fierce struggle, captured through a flurry of rapid, swirling lines that evoke a sense of movement and intensity. Ensor's use of pen and ink creates a stark contrast between black and white, further emphasizing the dramatic nature of the scene. This dynamic and energetic drawing captures a moment of primal conflict, reflecting Ensor's fascination with the darker aspects of human nature and the struggle for power.