Nicasius Bernaerts [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons |
Bernaerts was known for hunting scenes portrayed with energy and even violence, and also for animal portraits that showed close attention to the anatomy of the animal portrayed; in fact Louis XIV hired him to create portraits of all the newest animals at the Versailles menagerie. Here in this beautiful (and sizable: 50" x 37") oil on canvas, there's no overt violence, but the smaller dog is deeply distressed by Tambon's checking paw. Is that a reference to Tambon's master?
Which Duke of Vendome claimed this animal and by extension his power? There were two Dukes of Vendome in 1665: Cesar de Bourbon, and then at his death in October, his son Louis de Bourbon. I think it had to be Cesar, as Louise had entered the church in 1657 after the death of his wife. Not that this was any major obstacle to owning a fine dog or anything else at that time and place.
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