Three Studies of a Lion 1815 - 1863

Eugène Delacroix created these sketches of lions. He would have made these using graphite on paper in the 19th century. Delacroix’s sketches provide insights into the way in which artists represented animals, and the natural world, during a time of expanding colonial influence and growing interest in exotic lands. The Romantic movement emphasized emotion and individualism, but we can see its legacy here, too, in Delacroix’s intense observation and the almost reverent quality of his line. The lion, often viewed as a symbol of power and dominance, gets a delicate rendering here, inviting us to consider the complex relationship between humans and the animal kingdom. These sketches prompt us to think about how cultural perceptions of animals are formed, as well as the role of art in perpetuating or challenging these views. They are a window into the past, reflecting a world of exploration, scientific discovery, and the ongoing human quest to understand our place in nature.