Liggende løvinde 1819 - 1890

Curator: Edme Saint-Marcel's "Liggende løvinde," or "Reclining Lioness," invites contemplation through its masterful rendering in pencil. Dating between 1819 and 1890, this drawing is part of the collection at the SMK, the National Gallery of Denmark. Editor: It’s so soft. Despite being a lioness, that we instinctively associate with power and strength, the mood is one of utter relaxation. Like a giant housecat catching an afternoon nap. Curator: Indeed. The academic style is evident in the precise anatomical study and careful attention to musculature, showcasing the artist's dedication to realistic representation. Consider the economy of line, a testament to the artist's skill. Editor: I am struck by the fact it’s a sketch. It captures the essence of the lioness so completely. It's not just what is drawn, but what's left out that makes it compelling, and allows your imagination to flesh it out. Curator: I see your point. The drawing, on closer inspection, highlights the play of light and shadow which models the form beautifully, thus, conveying mass and volume with just a few strokes. Note how the direction of the lines contributes to our understanding of the underlying structure. Editor: It's interesting, isn't it? How Saint-Marcel used something as simple as a pencil to create something so… present. You can almost hear her breathing. Do you think it's possible that the fact we can’t see her eyes makes it more restful? Curator: Perhaps, in obscuring the lioness's gaze, Saint-Marcel directs our focus inward. Editor: It invites a quiet, almost meditative state. Curator: A fine encapsulation of both the power and serenity inherent within this regal creature. Editor: It's certainly changed my mind about sketches, so thank you. There's so much revealed in its seeming incompleteness.