King

Introducing ""South Shishangeni Male" - the largest lion currently living in Kruger National Park in South Africa. He was named after the place of his birth. The darker mane indicates a higher level of testosterone, often resulting in stronger and more dominant males and his scars come from many fights and likely a few buffalo hunts. I based this painting on one main reference photo as well as additional references which were needed to achieve this level of detail. This painting took 3-4 months to complete.

While South Africa is one of the few countries where lion populations are relatively stable and even increasing in some areas, South African lions still face threats like human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and habitat loss.