Little Jake’s mum and dad commissioned this illustration as a very special first birthday present. They came to me after seeing the illustrations I'd done for Pippa's two children - Annabelle with her fawn and Thomas and his otters.

Jake's parents asked for a lion with a big mane, as it was the first animal that popped into both their heads when they started thinking about the piece. I loved the idea of this majestic fellow watching over Jake, so I decided to set them high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the plains with big sky, so that the attention was all on Jake and his lion. 

Jacobie, Jake's mum, was so excited with final piece she completely forgot to reply when I shared photos of the finished piece. 

'ahhh Stephanie, I’m so excited it’s perfect. I love it. I’m sorry I was too busy showing everyone and forgot to reply! I am so happy with it'