Menonday Art Vibe; Woof, Wooluf

In the hunting room of Duff House, as you might expect, there are pictures related to the subject and purpose. Today, I bring you two for the price of one post.

First is the painting "A Dead Wolf" by the Flemish Baroque painter Jan Fyt (1609-1661). He was one of the top animal and nature painters of his time and was much emulated by later artists. It is a testament to the craft of this work that, despite the fact that we are looking at the proceeds of a hunt, I was captivated by the rendering of the fur and the sense of respect for the animal even in death.

Second is A Dog's Head by Scottish artist William Simson (1799-1847). Simson was better known as a landscape artist, but did complete some quite excellent portraits and animal works. Although a little dark, I loved this piece - I felt like the dog was just asking for a pat on the head!