Jachthond 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat created this small drawing of a hunting dog using pen and brown ink sometime in the 19th century. Tavenraat, a Dutch artist, lived during a time when class distinctions were clearly marked, with hunting often associated with wealth and leisure. The sketch captures the dog in a moment of alertness, perhaps sensing a nearby presence. The dog embodies a kind of subservience, bred and trained to assist in the hunt, mirroring the era’s social hierarchies where roles were clearly defined. The sketch itself, with its quick, confident lines, speaks to an intimacy between the artist and his subject. Consider how Tavenraat’s choice to depict a hunting dog, rather than another animal, reflects the values of his time. It’s a tender moment, revealing how societal structures and personal connections intertwine, shaping both our art and our understanding of the world around us.