Bello 1821

Christian David Gebauer made this etching of a dog, titled "Bello," at an unknown date. This print allows us to reflect on the changing relationship between humans and animals at the turn of the 19th century. Dogs moved from being working animals to domestic companions, particularly for the middle and upper classes of Europe. As such, the visual representation of specific dog breeds became associated with wealth, leisure, and the natural world. Further research would be needed to identify the dog's breed and potential symbolism. By looking at images in popular publications of the period, we might better understand how "Bello" participates in the social life of its time.