A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Lion (24″ x 20″)

“A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Lion”, aka “Il Leone e Le Sette Galassie (The Lion and the Seven Galaxies)”

This is a portrait of a lion against a fantasy background, including seven galaxies, stars, and nebulae, representing the abundance of the universe and forming a crown above the lion’s head. The background is gold leaf, and the highlights of the lion’s eyes are the unpainted real 23K gold leaf shining through. In addition, real 23K gold leaf and shell gold were carefully applied on top of the oil paints. The oil colors were chosen specifically for their rich tonal range and to give the subject a golden quality. Natural lazurite (from lapis lazuli) was chosen for the blues in the background to give the skies the appearance of lapis lazuli; this complements the golden tones of the lion. The gold shines through in a way that is difficult to capture in photographs.

The support is a plywood panel wrapped in linen for superior stability. Only traditional and light-fast pigments were used in the creation of this painting, which was painted in layers using the indirect method. The care and attention put into this work of art will ensure that the painting will last for many generations of enjoyment.

This painting is 24″ (61 cm) x 20″ (50.8 cm) and comes in a beautiful hardwood frame in a distressed black with a gold inner trim (see additional photos). Frame is 30.5″ (77.5 cm) x 26.5″ (67 cm)

The artist is Michael Scott Phillips, a wildlife oil painter, author, and designer in Atlanta, GA. His website is GreyOwlStudio.com. The title of the painting represents the hope and aspirations of the artist, who has fallen upon hard times with chronic illness. The painting represents his desire for the return of youth, vigor, and good fortune and success in the face of adversity.

On sale until the end of February 2023.