Savannah King — Origin

Lion in the Maasai Mara, Kenya. Photograph by Mital Patel.

Savannah King

The lion behind the artwork.

Maasai Mara, Kenya · 2017

The encounter

An encounter in the Maasai Mara.

Lion in tall grass, Maasai Mara, Kenya. Photograph by Mital Patel.

Savannah King began with a lion at rest on Kenya's open grasslands. The photograph captures the quiet presence that inspired the design.

It was my first trip to Africa, in 2017. In the Maasai Mara, I watched him sitting at rest as a breeze passed through. Even doing very little, he looked regal. That quiet presence is what I remember most about photographing him.

Mital Patel

From Lens to Line.

His full mane and steady gaze drew me to this photograph. The geometric interpretation brings those features into focus, simplifying the surrounding detail while preserving the character of his face. That expression became the heart of Savannah King.

Photograph
Lion, Maasai Mara, Kenya. Photograph by Mital Patel.
Artwork
Savannah King geometric design by Tembo Collection

That portrait is now part of your piece, carrying the encounter into everyday life.

Savannah King geometric artwork on olive green cap, Tembo Collection
The geometric artwork on the Savannah King piece.
Lioness and cub in tall grass, Maasai Mara. Photograph by Mital Patel.

Protecting the wild.

Savannah King supports Tsavo Trust's conservation work in Kenya's Tsavo ecosystem, helping protect wildlife and the landscapes it depends on.

30% of profits from every Savannah King purchase go directly to Tsavo Trust.

Explore Tsavo Trust's work ↗

Welcome to the Tembo Tribe.

Thank you for discovering the story behind Savannah King. The piece you carry connects you to this encounter, to the art it inspired, and to the work of Tsavo Trust.

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