Royal Tiger

The print Royal Tiger, created by Eugène Delacroix between 1829 and 1830, is a masterful example of Romantic-era printmaking and one of the artist's most celebrated lithographs. This particular impression is classified as a lithograph, situated specifically between the second and third states of the stone, allowing scholars to trace the subtle but crucial technical changes Delacroix applied as he refined the composition. Delacroix’s skill in exploiting the medium is evident in the velvety texture and deep, powerful contrasts, which define the subject with dramatic intensity.

The subject centers on a powerful tiger situated within a dense landscape. The magnificent feline, rendered using sharp linear definition and profound shadow, embodies the untamed power and exoticism that fascinated the artist throughout his career. Delacroix, who frequently explored Orientalist themes and the kinetic energy of wild animals, utilized this piece to examine the raw strength of nature, a crucial element of the Romantic movement. The contrast between the animal’s coiled intensity and the turbulent, shadowed environment highlights the inherent drama of the scene.

This work serves as a key indicator of Delacroix’s deep commitment to natural history studies and his profound influence on graphic art. As one of his significant graphic works, this powerful image remains an iconic contribution to the history of 19th-century prints. The lithograph is held within the esteemed permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Reflecting its historical importance, high-resolution images of this masterwork are often made available through public domain collections.