The artwork “Horse Attacked by a Lion,” created by George Stubbs between 1762 and 1765, is an oil painting on canvas. Belonging to the Romanticism movement, this wildlife painting is currently located at the Tate Modern in London, UK.
In the artwork, Stubbs masterfully depicts a dramatic and perilous scene featuring a horse being ferociously attacked by a lion. The white horse, shown in striking contrast against the dark, rocky background, displays a vivid expression of terror and physical strain as it rears up in a desperate attempt to escape the clutches of the lion. The lion, gripping the horse with its powerful claws and teeth, illustrates the raw and ruthless aspects of nature. The scene is set amidst a dark and tumultuous landscape, heightening the sense of tension and emphasizing the harsh reality of the natural world. Stubbs’ meticulous attention to anatomical detail and dynamic composition exemplifies his profound understanding and portrayal of animal subjects, making the painting a hallmark of Romanticism’s fascination with nature’s sublime and potent forces.
