“Fauna,” created by Henry Ossawa Tanner in 1879, is a notable work from the Realism art movement, characterized as an animal painting. This artwork exemplifies Tanner’s keen observation and commitment to realistic representation of the natural world and its inhabitants.
The artwork depicts a tranquil forest scene with two deer, one standing alert while the other grazes. The surrounding environment is meticulously detailed, capturing the dense foliage, rugged terrain, and the soft light filtering through the trees, creating a serene and lifelike atmosphere. The stream in the foreground adds an element of calm and natural beauty, enhancing the overall peacefulness of the scene. Through this painting, Tanner demonstrates his exceptional ability to render lifelike animals in their natural habitats, reflecting the principles of Realism by focusing on accurate and detailed depictions of nature.