Pets At Play

When I embarked on the journey of creating this watercolor painting of our beloved pets, I found myself reflecting on my prior experiences with incorporating animals into various artistic endeavors. My mind immediately wandered to a remarkable portrait that has left a lasting impression on me: the portrait of James Stuart (1612–1655), Duke of Richmond and Lennox, an exquisite oil on canvas masterpiece crafted by the renowned artist Anthony van Dyck. This exceptional work is currently housed in the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it continues to captivate viewers with its elegance and depth.

What truly strikes me about van Dyck's painting is the extraordinary way in which he managed to capture not only the likeness of the Duke but also the distinct personality of his dog, which is an integral part of the composition. The dog's expression, posture, and the intimate interaction between the two figures reveal a profound understanding of the bond shared between humans and their animal companions. This portrayal serves as a reminder that our pets possess unique personalities and emotions, much like our own, and that they play significant roles in our lives. The ability to convey such depth of character through brushstrokes and color is something I aspire to achieve in my own artwork.

I first encountered this remarkable painting in person when I was just 13 years old, a formative experience that sparked my passion for art and animal representation. At that time, I took a train from Dover, New Jersey, to the bustling heart of Manhattan, a journey that was not only safe but also filled with a sense of adventure. The old Erie Lackawanna railroad, with its noisy and bumpy ride, created a unique atmosphere that I can still vividly recall.

The unique aroma of the train cars, a blend of metal and the subtle fragrance of the cities we passed, is ingrained in my memory, enhancing the nostalgia of that day.

Traveling alone at such a young age was both exhilarating and daunting, but it instilled in me a sense of independence and curiosity that I carry to this day. Now, as I reflect on that experience, I find myself yearning to once again board a train bound for Manhattan, to immerse myself in the vibrant art scene and perhaps revisit the Metropolitan Museum of Art to see van Dyck's masterpiece anew.

This pivotal moment marked the beginning of my serious exploration into depicting animals in my work. It ignited a desire to convey the essence of our furry friends through my art, capturing their quirks, their charm, and the joy they bring into our lives. As I continue to develop my skills and deepen my understanding of watercolor techniques, I am constantly inspired by the beauty and complexity of the relationships we share with our pets, and I strive to reflect that in every stroke of my brush.

For millennia, artists have expressed their admiration and respect for dogs by depicting them in a variety of artistic forms, including paintings, sculptures, and carvings. This long-standing relationship between humans and dogs has been captured through the ages, highlighting the special bond that exists between the two species. Dogs, often regarded as loyal companions and protectors, have found their way into the annals of art history, serving as symbols of fidelity, courage, and companionship. Their presence in art is not merely decorative; it reflects the deep emotional connections humans have forged with these animals throughout history.

Dogs are even present in ancient art, serving as a testament to their significance in human culture. For instance, in the ruins of Pompeii, a remarkable dog mosaic was uncovered in the House of the Tragic Poet, a structure that was constructed in its current form towards the end of the first century BC. This particular mosaic features a striking depiction of a fierce canine, suggesting that the admiration for dogs has endured for at least two millennia. The artistry and craftsmanship displayed in the mosaic reveal not only the aesthetic values of the time but also the role that dogs played in the daily lives of the inhabitants of Pompeii.

The words inscribed at the bottom of the mosaic, Cave Canem, which translates to “beware of the dog,” serve as a cautionary note for visitors. However, it is widely believed that this warning was intended to inform guests of the presence of dogs within the household, emphasizing their role as guardians of the home. This mosaic is just one example of how dogs have been immortalized in art, reflecting their importance across various cultures and epochs.

Throughout history, dogs have been depicted in a myriad of contexts—ranging from hunting companions to beloved pets—each portrayal revealing different facets of their relationship with humans. In ancient Egypt, for instance, dogs were revered and often associated with deities, while in medieval Europe, they were depicted in hunting scenes that highlighted their skills and loyalty. Such representations not only celebrate the physical attributes of dogs but also encapsulate the emotions and narratives woven into the fabric of human-dog interactions. The enduring presence of dogs in art underscores their integral role in human society, serving as both companions and protectors.

As artistic expressions continue to evolve, the depiction of dogs remains a poignant reminder of the deep-seated connections we share with these remarkable animals, transcending time and cultural boundaries. Thus, the legacy of dogs in art is not merely a historical footnote but a vibrant testament to the enduring bond that continues to thrive between humans and their canine counterparts.

And not to forget our feline companions, they have certainly made their mark on art history. Ancient Egyptian art is famous for its beautiful and detailed portrayals of various life aspects, including the significant role of cats in their society. These feline creatures held a special place in the hearts and minds of ancient Egyptians, often being regarded as sacred animals. Consequently, cats appeared in many artistic representations, such as tomb paintings and sculptures. The ancient Egyptians linked cats with the goddess Bastet, who was often depicted as a lioness or as a woman with a lioness's head. Bastet was the goddess of home, fertility, and protection, and cats were seen as her loyal companions and guardians. Therefore, it is not surprising to find numerous depictions of cats in Egyptian art, symbolizing their reverence for these animals and their deep belief in their divine qualities.

In summary, the artistic portrayals of cats in Egyptian art offer important insights into the cultural importance and admiration for these animals, revealing a multifaceted relationship that transcended mere companionship. These depictions, found in a variety of mediums such as sculpture, painting, and pottery, exemplify the reverence that ancient Egyptians held for cats, which were not only cherished as pets but also regarded as sacred beings.

The profound bond between the ancient Egyptians and cats is underscored by the various roles these enigmatic creatures played in their daily lives and spiritual beliefs. Cats were often associated with the goddess Bastet, who embodied fertility, motherhood, and domesticity, as well as the protection of the home. This divine connection elevated the status of cats in society, leading to their veneration and the establishment of shrines dedicated to their worship.

Moreover, the artistic representations of cats frequently highlight their grace and agility, capturing their fluid movements and enigmatic expressions. These portrayals served not only as a reflection of the artists' skills but also as a means of conveying the cats' symbolic significance within the cultural narrative. The presence of cats in tomb paintings and funerary artifacts indicates that they were believed to accompany their owners in the afterlife, reinforcing the notion of their spiritual importance.

Additionally, the meticulous attention to detail in these artworks—such as the depiction of cats lounging in sunbeams or playfully interacting with their surroundings—reveals the affection and admiration that the ancient Egyptians felt towards these animals. This admiration extended beyond the artistic realm, as laws were enacted to protect cats, and harming one was considered a grave offense.

In conclusion, the artistic portrayals of cats in Egyptian art not only celebrate the physical beauty and intriguing nature of these animals but also serve as a testament to the deep-seated cultural significance they held. Through these artworks, we gain valuable insights into the ways in which cats were woven into the fabric of ancient Egyptian life, illustrating their unique role as both companions and revered symbols within a complex societal framework.

Pawsing Mewtonian Purrspectives - Here's a fun site for cat lovers of all ages: IsaacMewton.net

Watercolor on Arches 300 lb. Paper, By Eric Buechel, 28" x 20", 2018. This is another painting of our animals at play. Sophie, our Rat Terrier, Winston our cat and our grandbaby-dog Sunny playing on the carpet on a cool winters day.