Lopende leeuw 1904

This is Bernard Willem Wierink's "Lopende leeuw" or "Walking Lion," a monochrome drawing. The power of this artwork lies in its detailed use of line and texture. Note how Wierink employs dense, directional hatching to sculpt the lion's muscular form. Observe the contrast between the smooth areas of the lion's flank and the rugged texture of its mane. The artist uses varying densities of lines to create a sense of light and shadow, giving volume to the lion's body. Consider too, the composition itself. The lion strides purposefully across the page, its strong horizontal axis anchored by the dense, vertical strokes of the background. The artist uses the lion as a signifier, a symbol of strength and nobility. Wierink's expert manipulation of line and tone not only creates a compelling image of a lion but also prompts us to contemplate the broader themes of power, nature, and representation.