Tiger in a Cave (1814)

Jacques-Laurent Agasse was a renowned Swiss animal and landscape painter. He initially studied in the public art school of Geneva before moving to Paris to study veterinary science, a pursuit that enriched his understanding of animal anatomy, particularly horses. His career took a significant turn when a wealthy Englishman, impressed with Agasse's painting of his deceased dog, brought Agasse to England. There, Agasse established himself as one of the most celebrated animal painters of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His profound knowledge of animal anatomy, coupled with his devotion to art, particularly shone in his depictions of English racehorses. Agasse's works were regularly exhibited, starting from 1801, and he continued to showcase his art until 1845, contradicting earlier beliefs that he had died in 1806.