Lion and lioness
1785
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1785
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
A lion sits on a rocky ledge, its mane thick and light-colored, looking straight ahead. Below it, a lioness lies down, her head resting on her paws. The background is rough, with dark greens and blues suggesting a wild, uneven landscape. The artist used soft colors and loose brushstrokes to make the animals look natural, not stiff. The lion’s fur is painted in gentle layers, almost blending with the rocky ground. Check out Howitt for more of his animal paintings.