1891 – Bear and Cubs

“Bear and Cubs” – by Harrison Weir, is a full page book plate image, taken from “Animals and their Young”, by Harland Coultas, and published by S.W.Partridge & Co, in 1891. A warm and empathetic study of a young mother Bear with her two cubs, the drawing resonates with the juxtaposition, of quiet, confident power in the mother Bear, and the calm, relaxed innocence of the cubs, which appear untroubled and safe. Weir was very familiar with Bears, having collected them from the docks and taken them to the Crystal Palace and having observed and drawn them at the Regents Park Zoological Gardens. Once again, the drawing is imbued with the mood of conservation, and of a balance between fear and respect for the wild. We view this seemingly calm domestic scene, through the eyes of the naturalist, interested in showing us a glimpse of the truth in nature. Somewhat reminiscent of a “still” shot, taken from a modern documentary, we get to see a tender moment in the life of these beautiful but powerful carnivores.

Prints currently available in A4, A3 and A2 sizing options.