Waiting for Treats: Portrait of "Kiss" the Dog 1890

19th-Century Oil on Canvas Portrait of a Terrier, “Kiss" the Dog
Dated 1890

This charming late 19th-century oil on canvas depicts a small terrier reclining attentively on a red cushion, rendered with notable sensitivity and character. Painted in 1890 and titled "Kiss" the Dog, the work reflects the Victorian-era fondness for canine portraiture, when beloved pets were frequently commemorated as individual personalities rather than mere accessories. The dog’s alert pose, finely observed coat markings, and expressive gaze suggest it may have been a cherished companion rather than a generic studio subject.

Executed with a warm, restrained palette and soft interior backdrop, the composition emphasizes intimacy and domestic comfort. The painting is presented in a period oak frame with gilt liner, complementing the work’s scale and tone. A delightful example of late 19th-century animal painting, well suited for a study, library, or collection focused on dogs or Victorian genre subjects.

Measurements:
14.5" L x 12.5" H