What makes a painting better? Including a pug or monkey.
Art historians and scholars would say animals in paintings dating back to the Renaissance hold symbolic significance. I say the artist knew it was the only way to get young people to look at their paintings in galleries generations later.
On Fridays we feature work by current artists, many of whom have their work available on etsy.
If you appreciate a good monkey on a leash, pug on a boat or creepy staring dog -- this blog's for you.
These are animals. In art.
Rusty gave up hope that he would ever get a slice of that orange.
Quiringh Gerritsz. van Brekelenkam
Interior with a Woman Holding an Orange
1653
No amount of 18th century squeaky toys could make Scrappy look at the painter.
Antoine Pesne (1683-1757)
“A Portrait of a Young Boy with his Dog”
John Singleton Copley
“Young Lady with a Bird and Dog”
1767
Watching dogs fight was a sophisticated family affair in 18th century Austria — the kind of event you brought your teacup pet monkey to.
Martin van Meytens (1695–1770)
“Francois III (1708-65) with His Wife Marie-Therese (1717-80) and Their Children”
Francois Hubert Drouais
“Madame de Pompadour”
1764
![Bernie stayed close, waiting for his chance to mute the lute.
facepalmmozart:
Willem Van Mieris - The Lute Player [1711]](http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lrqiwjFg8a1qgfl6zo1_r1_500.jpg)
Bernie stayed close, waiting for his chance to mute the lute.
Willem Van Mieris - The Lute Player [1711]
(via 18thcenturylove)
Never deny a Belgian poodle his waffles.
Jacob Philipp Hackert
“A Belgian Poodle”
1793
Instead of using carrots and sticks, young Henry pioneered the treats and gun training method.
Portrait of a Young Boy with Toy Gun and Dog by David Luders
Max ran to stop Buster, who was determined to lead the horses to water to make them drink.
George Stubbs
“John and Sophia Musters Riding at Colwick Hall”
1777
“I don’t need a matching red bow, I need a groomer appointment!”
The White Duchess, 1795
by Francisco de Goya
(via 18thcenturylove)
