Alert Leopard (or similar wildlife study)
Painting on canvas or high-quality giclée print on canvas • Stephen Gayford
Style & Movement
Contemporary Wildlife Realism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, or original-enhanced limited edition giclée. Technique involves photorealistic fine-brush rendering of fur and soft atmospheric glazing in the background.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (circa 1990-2015)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16x20 inches or 20x24 inches; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A detailed centered composition of a sitting leopard perched on a rock, looking to its left. The background is a dark, muted green/black suggestive of a nocturnal or thicket setting. The iconography focuses on the conservation of African big cats and the 'noble savage' aesthetic of wildlife portraiture.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; appears well-preserved under appropriate indoor conditions without visible fading or surface cracking.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $400 USD (subject to whether it is a unique original oil or a limited edition print)
Auction Estimate
$50 - $250 USD
Provenance History
Purchased directly from or through galleries associated with Stephen Gayford (often sold via commercial galleries or direct-to-collector decorative art channels in the UK).
Art Historical Significance
Stephen Gayford is a well-known British wildlife artist recognized for his support of conservation efforts. While commercially successful, his work sits within the tradition of British sporting and natural history art, focusing on technical precision rather than avant-garde innovation.
Notable Features
Features the artist's signature hyper-realistic rendering of animal texture and facial expression. Gayford's works often include a certificate of authenticity or a narrative label on the reverse from his publishing house.
Condition Issues
None visible in the photograph. Potential for surface dust or slight yellowing of varnish over long periods if not maintained.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent UV fading. Maintain a stable humidity of 40-50%. Dust with a soft, dry micro-fiber cloth; do not use chemical cleaners.
Collector Notes
Purchased from Stephen GAYFORD