Canines have acted as a symbol for societal matters, motivation for various lifestyles, or as the most unadulterated form of artistic representation, ultimately establishing themselves as a fixture in human existence. Dogs have served, and undoubtedly continue to serve, as inspirations for humanity, so why not explore some of the most celebrated artistic depictions of dogs across the globe?
1. Rock Art From A Cave In Saudi Arabia
This rock art, discovered in a cave in Saudi Arabia by unknown creators, illustrates what is believed to be a group of dogs surrounding some human hunters. Regardless of the narrative behind this cave painting, I am confident that the individuals represented were filled with happiness, enveloped by dogs.
While detailed information is scarce, there are indications that point towards a clear differentiation between shepherding and hunting dogs within this artwork. I may not discern which is which, but I trust that your judgment will yield better clarity with a cup of coffee in hand.
2. Chou Fang’s Ladies With Hair Adorned With Flowers
This peculiar-looking dog appears to be enjoying life during the Tang Dynasty. Originating from Fang’s birthplace, Chang’an (now known as Xi’an), this artwork dates back to between 730 and 810.
China is home to some of the world’s most revered toy dog breeds, making it unsurprising that the painting showcases what I believe to be a Pekingese.
The squirrel-like aesthetic could hint at Chou Fang’s playful jab at the breed or serve as an accurate representation of the breed’s characteristics during that era.
3. Edwin Landseer’s A Distinguished Member Of The Humane Society
Jumping ahead to the 19th century, we find painter Sir Edwin Henry Landseer and his exquisite portrayal of a black-and-white Newfoundland dog. This oil on canvas is part of the Tate Museum collection and was gifted by Newman Smith in 1887.
However, this is not merely any Newfoundland dog; it showcases a Landseer Newfoundland dog. For further exploration of the differences between the Newfoundland and Landseer breeds, check out our article discussing the distinctions between the European and Standard Landseer.
4. Johann Christof Merck’s Ulmer Dogge
Johann Christof Merck specialized in animal art, a fact evident in this intricately detailed oil on canvas titled Ulmer Dogge from 1705. This piece is a part of the permanent display at the Jagdschloss Grunewald hunting lodge, among various other hunting artworks.
Curious about the dog breed? It is indeed a Great Dane. Although it may not closely resemble our contemporary understanding of the breed, the painting’s title affirms this identity. I would argue that the Mastiff x Great Dane hybrid might align more closely with the dog depicted in the artwork.
5. Henri Van Assche’s Dog Seated On A Red Cushion
Behold Dobby, the Brako family House Elf, lounging on a red cushion. This mixed breed dog has its ears pinned back, showcasing a demeanor of submission, while Henri Van Assche faithfully captures this client-commissioned canine portrait.
Pet portraits were relatively rare during the Rococo art movement of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Henri has done well to introduce a lifelike representation of a canine. Acquired by an anonymous collector in 2020, this painting now resides in their private collection.
6. Frederick August Wenderoth’s Little Terrier
A small dog calls for a proportional painting size. This particular artwork measures 21 by 23 inches and is an oil on canvas by American artist F.A. Wenderoth, whose portrayal of the Little Terrier seems to juxtapose the newly adopted Romantic movement of the 19th century.
The breed evidently has strong connections to Miniature Pinscher lineage, although it likely possesses some terrier ancestry, as indicated by the title of the painting. We are likely destined to speculate, as this artwork was sold to an unidentified buyer in 2008.
7. Francisco Goya’s The Dog
If you have any familiarity with painting, you are likely aware of Goya’s masterpieces. This particular piece is originally a mural, though it has been transferred to canvas and has been a part of the Prado Museum’s permanent collection since 1889.
The somber essence of the seemingly forlorn dog evokes a strong parallel to Goya’s portrayal of personal struggles and isolation throughout the 19th-century art movements.
8. Cassius Marcellus Coolidge’s A Bold Bluff
Dogs Playing Poker has become synonymous with lists of notable dog paintings. While Coolidge’s A Friend in Need might be more renowned, A Bold Bluff brings us up close to the table, allowing us to observe the dogs’ knack for calling a bluff.
This painting was auctioned for $590,400 and is part of William Zeckendorf Sr.’s personal collection. Dogs Playing Poker was actually commissioned by Coolidge from the advertising agency Brown & Bigelow and remains exceptionally popular today.
9. Edwin Henry Landseer’s The Lion Dog Of Malta
This artwork highlights the Maltese dog’s superiority over the considerably larger Newfoundland dog, which is strikingly impressive. Yet, Sir Edwin’s talent in capturing and maintaining focus on both dogs is as praiseworthy as the poise shown by the canines.
Commissioned by Queen Victoria, daughter of the Duchess of Kent, Landseer was tasked with painting this dog duo in honor of her mother. The Maltese dog had been her faithful companion, rendering the portrait’s significance profound.
Sir Edwin’s older brother, Thomas Landseer, crafted a sculpture of this portrait to commemorate his brother’s remarkable painting skills. This artwork has been included in the Royal Collection since 1840.
10. Paul Gauguin’s Arearea
Gauguin was a French artist known for his involvement in activist circles aimed against a rather oppressive regime during the late 19th and early 20th century.
His canine artworks often emphasized the “collarless” existence of the dogs he encountered in Tahiti. Though critics may label these as “exotic” with profound metaphorical implications, they genuinely reflect a depiction of raw reality.
Initially showcased in 1893 at the Parisian Durand-Ruel exhibition, the French State presented Arearea in 1961, displaying it at the Louvre. It found a permanent place in the Musée d’Orsay in 1986, where it still remains on exhibit.
Famous Last Words
Rock art, mosaics, paintings, murals, sculptures, and numerous other artistic forms capture the evolution of dog domestication. This visual heritage not only illustrates the transformation of our relationship with dogs over time but also highlights the inherent value of these creatures.
Despite the commercialization of breeding, we may sometimes take dogs for granted. Great artists remind us, though, that a dog’s portrayal can be as multifaceted as the essence of a dog itself. Be it a metaphor, an homage, a gift, or a graphic memoir, a dog painting imparts countless narratives.