Aesop’s the Lion and the Mouse

Once when a Lion was asleep a little Mouse began running up and down upon him; this soon wakened the Lion, who placed his huge paw upon him, and opened his big jaws to swallow him. “Pardon, O King,” cried the little Mouse: “forgive me this time, I shall never forget it: who knows but what I may be able to do you a turn some of these days?” The Lion was so tickled at the idea of the Mouse being able to help him, that he lifted up his paw and let him go. Some time after the Lion was caught in a trap, and the hunters who desired to carry him alive to the King, tied him to a tree while they went in search of a wagon to carry him on. Just then the little Mouse happened to pass by, and seeing the sad plight in which the Lion was, went up to him and soon gnawed away the ropes that bound the King of the Beasts. “Was I not right?” said the little Mouse.

Little friends may prove great friends.

This fable is immediately recognizable to any fan of Aesop.  The great lion is forced to ask for help from the smallest of creatures.  It forces us to confront our own preconceived notions of who or what is weak or powerful.  Great strength comes in unexpected places and from unexpected people, and we shouldn’t be so quick to decide how we expect to receive either.  I have always appreciated the story and love the idea that greatness and kindness can be found within us all.

This painting is purely watercolor.  I used both wet and “drybrush” technique.  It is one of two paintings in a diptych, the other being Aesop’s Rooster and the Jewel.  This piece would ideally hang to the right. The color schemes of the two paintings are purposefully linked.

Watercolor on Windsor Newton cold press (signed and numbered prints available)