The Ancient King
Acrylic,
US$
521
469
|
The Ancient King
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Details
Acrylic
Impasto
W: 300mm x H: 420mm x D: 15mm
W: 12" x H: 17" x D: 1"
Approx. Weight: 0.5kg
This work is
unframed
Price
US$ 469
Scale
About "The Ancient King"
The Ancient King is a commanding portrait of a lion rendered with a sense of age, dignity, and almost mythic authority. Set against a deep, earthen background, the animal emerges from shadow beneath the warm glow of a large golden sun. The composition immediately gives the impression of an ancient ruler--solitary, watchful, and powerful.
The lion's face is the emotional centre of the work. Its intense golden eye fixes the viewer with a penetrating gaze, while the heavy brow, weathered features, and richly textured mane suggest wisdom earned through time. Rather than depicting the lion simply as a symbol of physical strength, the artwork presents it as a keeper of memory--a creature that has witnessed generations pass and carries the weight of an ancient kingdom within its expression.
The sweeping mane is particularly effective. Its elongated, almost flame-like strands radiate outward, creating a natural crown around the head. Against the luminous circular form behind it, the mane becomes reminiscent of the rays of a sun, reinforcing the idea of royalty and sovereignty. The lion appears almost carved from the surrounding darkness, as though an ancient monument has come alive.
The restrained palette of ochre, bronze, umber, charcoal, and muted gold gives the work a timeless, archaeological quality. The rough, heavily textured surroundings complement the subject, evoking weathered stone, old walls, and forgotten temples. The contrast between the luminous background and the dark body draws the eye toward the lion's face and gives the portrait a dramatic, almost spiritual atmosphere.
There is also an intriguing tension in the expression. The lion is not roaring. Its mouth is closed and its posture is controlled. Its power comes from stillness rather than aggression. This makes the title, The Ancient King, especially fitting: the figure does not need to demonstrate its authority. It simply possesses it.
The work can be read symbolically as a meditation on strength, wisdom, endurance, leadership, and the passage of time. The ancient king may represent not only the lion itself, but the enduring qualities of those who have survived hardship and emerged with greater understanding. The solitary composition further emphasizes the burden of leadership--the king stands alone, surrounded by darkness, yet illuminated by the golden light behind him.
Overall, The Ancient King combines animal portraiture with symbolism and atmosphere to create an image that feels larger than its subject. It is a portrait of a lion, but also a portrait of time itself: proud, weathered, watchful, and enduring.
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View all 73 works by Salome High
About Salome
Salome High is a contemporary South African artist who studied Fine Art at the University of Pretoria. Her work reflects the spirit of the times, embracing the ever-evolving zeitgeist while remaining rooted in a philosophy of simplicity. Inspired by Le Corbusier's famous maxim, "Less is more," she seeks to distill her subjects to their essential beauty and character.
Working primarily from photographic references, Salome transforms observed reality into expressive, contemporary artworks. Her current body of work focuses on wildlife, capturing the strength, elegance, and individuality of each animal through a fresh artistic perspective. By introducing subtle elements of glamour and refinement, she creates a unique visual dialogue that celebrates the natural world while inviting viewers to see familiar subjects in a new light.
Price Range
US$ 104-2,188
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Exhibitions
1981 Artwork travelled through Europe at various exhibitions 1999-2002 'University of Pretoria' Departmental Group Exhibitions2000 Artwork Chosen for a Group Exhibition at the 'African Window'
2001-2002 Exhibitions at the 'Pretoria Arts Association
2002 Group Exhibition at the 'Visual Arts Gallery' in Melville
2003 Exhibited at 'Mind's i' (Cross)
2003 Group Exhibition at the 'Barnyard Theatre' in Menlyn Pretoria
2004 Group Exhibition at 'Willem Edel' Art Gallery
2006 Group Exhibition at 'The Studio' Main road, Clarens
2009 Curator and exhibited with other artists at 'Butterfly Valley', Ramsgate, KZN
2010 Curator and exhibited at my own gallery 'SHigh Art', Ramsgate, KZN
2010 Group exhibition at 'Art Seen' gallery, KZN
2011 Curator and exhibited ColaborArt no.18 at 'SHigh Art' & no.19 at Margate Art Museum, Ramsgate, KZN
Education
BA (BK) Fine Arts degree
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