A majestic red stag with large branching antlers stands at the center of a forest clearing, gazing directly out. Soft shafts of sunlight break through the canopy behind it, flanked by dense autumn trees that recede into haze, with tall grasses, shrubs and scattered fallen leaves in gold, rust and green in the foreground.

Loose, impressionistic brushwork softens the face and fur, while thick impasto builds up the foliage and grass over a visible canvas weave. The palette is warm but slightly muted, in chestnut, amber, forest green and burnt orange, for a serene, reverent mood.