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River Ford - Tiger By Robert Bateman

River Ford - Tiger by Robert Bateman

"Most cats abhor water. Lions will crash into shallow water in hot pursuit of prey, but they do not seem to want to be in the water otherwise. There are two species of cats that have evolved in hot, moist climates and seem to be quite happy in the water. One is the jaguar of tropical America and the other is the tiger of Asia."

"Although I have seen more than a dozen Bengal tigers in the wild, this particular individual was in the Delhi Zoo. Artists must be careful when using zoo animals as reference for their paintings. Big cats in particular tend to get a bit paunchy. For example, I have never seen a zoo lion that didn't look like a zoo specimen, even around the face. However, this tiger was a prime specimen who entered the water without hesitation. I noticed that the dry fur on his flanks floated momentarily before becoming immersed as the animal moved into deeper water. He had an appealing intent expression on his face with whiskers bristling. I could imagine him focusing on possible prey - perhaps a swamp doe."

"My thoughts raced to a memorable moment in Assam State of India, years earlier. We were birding at the edge of a marsh. Across a stretch of water, a herd of swamp deer was grazing. Suddenly all heads turned to the left, and there, in the full afternoon sun, was a large Bengal tiger stalking the deer at the edge of the water. A predator has virtually zero chance of catching a prey if seen before the charge. That tiger evidently thought that it was worth a try anyway, in case there were any weak or sick deer. It was a scene of racing and splashing, and no kill was made. But the tiger got very wet." ~ Robert Bateman

Large Canvas - River Ford - Tiger by Robert Bateman is available for sale as a signed and numbered limited edition giclee canvas with a 24 x 48 image size priced at $895 unframed.

Order yours today. All artwork is professionally boxed and insured and guaranteed to arrive in mint condition.

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