A hippopotamus holds its pose with the gravitas of a Baroque nobleman: a lace collar, a deep shadowy drape and the soft, glowing light borrowed straight from Vermeer. The gap between the animal's calm bulk and its perfectly aristocratic bearing raises a smile first, then genuine admiration for the care given to every fold of fabric and every quiet highlight. From across the room it reads as an old master portrait; up close, it lets you in on the joke.

This piece belongs to our series of animal portraits reimagined in the manner of the old masters, gathered in our Animal Portraits collection. It feels at home above a slightly theatrical sofa, over a study with cabinet-of-curiosities charm, or in a hallway you want guests to remember. Given a little space to breathe, it turns a plain stretch of wall into a small stage, appealing to lovers of classical painting and playful minds alike.

• Sixteen sizes to choose from, ranging from small 13×18 cm up to A0
• Order it as a poster alone or framed in black, white, light wood or dark wood
• Printed on demand using quality paper and inks
• Free delivery included

A fitting gift for a Flemish-painting enthusiast with a solid sense of humour, or anyone who likes interiors with a story to tell.