Seated Dog, Jacques Jordaens, 1638

black and red chalk, with grey and brown wash, heightened with white, h 155mm × w 143mm More details

Dogs are everywhere, sniffing or barking, in paintings by the Flemish artist Jacob Jordaens. In this case he even drew a pregnant one. Her heavy belly hangs on the ground, and yet she remains upright leaning on her forelegs. This dog is probably a short-haired Vizsla, recognizable by the smooth coat and floppy ears. This breed of hunting dog was known for its excellent nose and tenacity in pointing and retrieving.