Liggende leeuw en leeuwin 1864 - 1936

"Liggende leeuw en leeuwin" (Reclining Lion and Lioness) is a pencil and wash drawing by Dutch artist Jan van Essen, dating from 1864-1936. The artwork, housed in the Rijksmuseum, depicts a pair of lions in a relaxed pose, suggesting a moment of rest. The artist's delicate lines and subtle shading capture the animal's musculature and texture, creating a sense of realism. This drawing exemplifies Van Essen's talent for animal portraiture, a recurring theme in his oeuvre.