Majestic Lion Hunting Landscape - 1661 - Signature Brueghel

Old Master Oil from 1661 - Majestic Lion Hunting Landscape

This captivating painting captures the raw intensity of a lion hunt amidst a mysterious forest landscape, likely inspired by the works of Roelandt Savery. The scene unfolds with lions, whose muscular forms blend into the shadows of the dense foliage, in pursuit of their prey. With skillful brushstrokes, the artist conveys the tension of pursuit, the prey's desperate attempt to escape and the primal instinct of predators. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting ethereal rays onto the scene, heightening the drama and mystique of the moment. Every detail, from the tangled undergrowth, from the parrot in the tree to the watchful eyes of the lions, is rendered with precision and realism, immersing the viewer in the heart of the action.

Roelandt Savery (1576-1639), a Dutch Golden Age painter of Flemish origin, was renowned for his exquisite landscapes and imaginative depictions of wildlife. Born in Kortrijk, Belgium, Savery's artistic talents were evident from an early age and he received formal training in painting and botany. His early career took him to Prague, where he served as court painter to the Roman emperors Rudolf II and Matthias. Savery's paintings are characterized by their meticulous attention to detail and vibrant use of color. He had a deep fascination with the natural world and often incorporated exotic animals and plants into his works, inspired by the menagerie of the imperial court. Its landscapes, influenced by the picturesque landscapes of Central Europe, often feature spectacular views, towering mountains and lush forests. One of Savery's notable contributions to art history is his role in popularizing the genre of "paradise landscape", which depicts idyllic scenes of nature teeming with flora and fauna. His innovative approach to composition and skillful rendering of light and shadow set a precedent for future landscape painters. Throughout his career, Savery's work evolved, reflecting his evolving artistic tastes and his own personal experiences. He returned to the Netherlands in his later years, where he continued to paint and teach until his death in Utrecht in 1639. Today, Roelandt Savery is celebrated as one of the leading figures of the Dutch Golden Age and a master of landscape painting. His legacy lives on through his timeless works, which continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

Signed lower left B... pinx 1661. On the right is an inscription "Brueghel". Measurements: 103 by 104 cm. Provenance: Private collection Netherlands