Spaniël 1740

"Spaniël" is an etching by Frederick Bloemaert, a Dutch artist active in the early 18th century. The detailed, lifelike depiction of a spaniel, its head resting on its paws, reflects Bloemaert's skill in capturing the form and character of animals. The artwork, part of the Rijksmuseum collection, showcases a refined use of light and shadow, highlighting the dog's fur and the surrounding foliage. This 1740 piece is an excellent example of the popularity of animal studies during the period, appreciated for both its technical mastery and its depiction of the natural world.