The evidence of facts, however, when set in apposition, affords, in all probability, the most efficacious and convincing means of manifesting such principles as we are here submitting, while they exhibit the varieties of animal expression to the best advantage; and we therefore introduce another GROUP of Panthers, from the same Sketch-book, by Stubbs, more malignant in their aspects.
[12]
E. Spilsbury delt. T. Landseer sculpt.
Panthers after Stubbs.
[13]
E. Spilsbury delt. T. Landseer sculpt.
Panthers after Stubbs.
[No. XIII.]
This is what one might call a domestic, or family, group; but they seem here to be meditating prey, and by no means so good-humoured as in the former instance, where they might be fancied to be quietly enjoying themselves after a sufficient repast. The two groups, when viewed together, seem very much to assist our perceptions of the capability of this animal of gentle, as well as of savage, expression.—They are contrasted, indeed, though without the direct opposition of violent brutal action, to calm repose: the eye being the chief seat of the difference. But neither the gentle, nor the more ferocious and malignant-looking, Panthers, or Tigers, will bear any comparison for commanding majesty of appearance with the regal Lion, whether in a calm or an excited state—as the vignette of our title-page is ready to bear witness.