A striking and unusually intimate Victorian dog portrait, circa 1900, depicting a dark curly coated retriever recumbent and wearing a chain collar, rendered against a softly handled grey ground.The painting is executed on what appears to be linen - this is an uncommon support for a work of this type and adds to its interest and character.The quality of observation is considerable - the head of the dog in particular is handled with real sensitivity, the amber eyes rendered with a directness and emotional presence that gives the work genuine appeal. The curly coat is described with confident brushwork, and the chain collar is painted with notable precision. The direct gaze of the animal lends the work an affecting, almost human quality that sets it apart from more routine Victorian animal portraits.The curly coated retriever was a well established working and sporting breed in Britain during the 19th century.A highly decorative and characterful piece that would suit a wid...