A lion and a tiger fighting over a fallen stag before a classical sarcophagus in a cave, a landscape with a pyramid beyond

Ruthart is best known for his depictions of wild animals, often shown, as here, fighting in imaginary landscapes. His style is distinguished by the originality of his compositions and the precision of his highly individual technique. Comparable depictions by the artist of lions and leopards fighting over stags were sold in these Rooms, 7 July 1995, lot 68 (£50,000) and 13 December 1996, lot 48 (one of a pair) (£75,000). The present picture is one of only a few known signed pictures by the artist.