Martin, a terrier

Rosa Bonheur was famous for her depictions of animals. She created many animal portraits, giving pets the dignity of subjects, almost as if they were human. Her animals are never humanized, they are not caricatures, and do not have a political or satirical purpose (unlike those of many other animalist artists). Martin, a terrier, is perhaps one of the most successful examples of Bonheur's animal portraits.

Typical of portraiture, the artwork features the subject's name prominently displayed in neat red lettering at the top of the canvas. In contrast, Bonheur's signature and date are subtly incorporated in a more spontaneous script on the right margin. Originally bred for hunting, terriers still carry their instinctual traits, evident in their multi-toned brown, gray, white, and black fur, designed to camouflage in underbrush and tall grass. Bonheur skillfully captures the dog’s fur texture with delicate brushwork, presenting it in its tangled vitality. The terrier's stern, furrowed gaze, and luminous, red eyes imbue the portrait with a melancholic, emotive quality. Bonheur's exceptional talent lies in her ability to imbue the animal with unique traits, setting it apart from breed stereotypes.

P.S. Learn more about the rebellious Rosa Bonheur—a woman who broke stereotypes both in her artistic and personal life as she had two long-term relationships with women.  The painting we present today is a part of our celebrations of Pride Month.  :)

P.P.S. Rosa Bonheur's marvelous animal depictions are featured in two of our postcard sets: Animals and Women Artists. Check them out in our DailyArt Shop! Your purchase supports our work.  :)