Studieblad met leeuwen 1885 - 1886

This study sheet of lions, created by Dutch artist Jan van Essen between 1885 and 1886, showcases his skill in capturing animal anatomy and form through expressive pen strokes. The work, housed in the Rijksmuseum, features multiple studies of lions in various poses, from a sleeping lion to a close-up of a lion’s head. Van Essen’s detailed yet fluid lines convey the powerful presence of these majestic creatures, highlighting their muscularity and distinctive features. This study sheet exemplifies the artist’s dedication to anatomical accuracy and his ability to convey a sense of life and movement in his drawings.