Hond liggend op een stoel 1821 - 1890

This pencil drawing of a dog lying on a chair was made by Guillaume Anne van der Brugghen in the Netherlands, sometime in the 19th century. This image speaks to the changing social status of animals, in particular dogs, during this period. While dogs had always served practical roles, such as hunting or guarding, they increasingly became seen as companions and members of the family. This shift reflects broader changes in Dutch society, including the rise of the middle class and new attitudes towards domesticity. The drawing style also suggests certain institutional affiliations. The artist may have been associated with an art academy, where the study of animals was a common exercise. Understanding the social conditions that shape artistic production requires us to examine not only the artwork itself, but also the historical, economic, and cultural forces at play. Researching period sources helps us understand how the public role of art has shifted over time.