Monday, February 7, 2011

How People Search For Authentic Dog Portraits

By William Sanders


Many people are interested in the English style of decorating but there is more to it than just the picture frames and china. This interest has given rise to the popularity of dog portraits that dates back from the Victorian era, according to traditional home magazine. According to history books, about 15,000 to 30,000 years back dog pictures were drawn on cave walls.

Even the royal dogs participated in the portraits made for the royal children. The dogs of Country squires also had portraits and titles. These kinds of paintings also held their part in the family record.

The peak of the dog portraiture industry came by the end of the 1800s. It was then that many people wanted to get a painting for their pets. In Great Britain the population was about 20 million to 30 million and it was said that around 6 million were animal painters.

Today many of the work of these people despite being amateurs are bought by many people. According to an art consultant in Pennsylvania, more people are drawn to these kinds of primitive paintings. It was not unusual to have the pets in the picture with mix breed. Paintings of purebreds were more sought after and collected according to the New York gallery owner and former director of the dog museum of America that was interviewed. Included in this genre were many paintings, prints, pastels and watercolors.

Whit the collection of a certain breed, many collectors appreciated purebred portraits better. Currently people are interested in the cavalier King Charles spaniel since it is a society dog. The best purebred portraits sometimes match the price of sporting portraits.

The market now has many sources for dog portraits. Good places to search for dog portraits are Art galleries, auction houses, private dealers and antique and thrift shops. One may not find any dog portraits in flea markets and garage sales.

When are interested in a certain buy, always do some research first. To get a better idea on what breed you are acquiring always read book like early 19th century breed books which can give you background information.

In auctions, your research will really be of good use. Pieces normally are not guaranteed to be real here. Authenticity is guaranteed through writing by good dealers. It is still best if you do your own research then completely put your faith in the hands of your dealer.




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