Lion of 1845 – Full Coverage Cross Stitch Pattern (PDF)

Lion is 448 stitches wide x 279 stitches tall
57,234 total stitches

Color Palettes
This pattern has 10 different color schemes!
The grid chart can be used for all color schemes.
DMC color followed by stitch count Please note: Color source is an RGB sampling of a photograph of DMC flosses.
You may want to visually compare to actual floss samples.
Screen coloring also varies from computer to computer - when possible, please match a printed sample to your flosses.

Pattern pages layout

Adapted from Pierre Boitard's public domain illustration, with 10 color palettes and no background—your fabric sets the stage.
This counted cross stitch pattern transforms Pierre Boitard's 1845 natural history lion engraving into a full coverage design that captures the regal anatomy and textured mane of the king of beasts. The background is intentionally omitted, allowing you to stitch the lion onto any fabric color—from parchment-toned linen to cosmic-dyed Aida. Even better? You get 10 curated color palettes to choose from, each offering a different mood and stitching experience.

Image Credits:
This image was found on the Smithsonian archive website
Image ID: SIL-sil24-192-01
Boitard, Pierre. 1845. Le jardin des plantes description et murs des mammiferes de la Menagerie et du Museum d'histoire naturelle, Paris : J.-J. Dubochet.
Original Caption: Le jardin des plantes : descriptions et moeurs des mammifères de la ménagerie et du Museum d'histoire naturelle