Lion, Lioness and Cubs n.d.

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo created "Lion, Lioness and Cubs" with pen and brown wash, over black chalk, in the 18th century. During this period lions were potent symbols of power and majesty, often associated with royalty and dominion. Tiepolo subverts these traditional associations. Here, the lions aren't symbols of dominance, but subjects of an intimate family scene. We observe not just the lion and lioness, but also their playful cubs. The tenderness in the lioness's gaze and the casual repose of the lion offer a vision of domesticity that humanizes these wild creatures. In doing so, Tiepolo invites a consideration of the multifaceted nature of power, suggesting it is not solely about assertion but also about nurture and care. This resonates with broader discussions about gender roles. By depicting the lioness as a central figure within the family unit, the drawing gently challenges the patriarchal norms of the time.