A joyful fusion of Olsen’s signature vitality, 'Elephants and Lily Pond' captures the artist’s lifelong fascination with the natural world. Here, his unmistakable calligraphic line, waxy gestures and washes of colour animate an unexpected meeting of subjects — the monumental presence of elephants set against the lyricism of a lily pond.

Bringing together humour, movement and a sense of ecological wonder, this 1994 work is a lively example of Olsen’s inventive spirit. At over a metre in height, it has scale, character and that unmistakable Olsen spark: a celebration of the world’s imaginative possibilities.

John OLSEN (1928 - 2023)
'Elephants and Lily Pond' 1994
Oil, wax crayon and watercolour on paper
Image Size: 113 x 100 cm
Signed: signed and titled lower left: 'John Olsen / Elephants & Lily Pond
Comes with Letter of Provenance

Condition: Very Good: Describes a work of art's image as Excellent, but may show some small signs of surrounding wear to paper or frame. There are no tears to paper margin or disruption to the paint surface.

(c) John Olsen / Copyright Agency