Newfoundland 1971

Jamie Wyeth painted 'Newfoundland' using mixed media on board. The picture depicts a large, dark Newfoundland dog dominating a coastal scene, with the sea and sky providing a somber backdrop. The Newfoundland breed has a specific cultural association in the Western world, particularly in maritime regions like the United States, where this painting was made. These dogs were historically prized for their strength, loyalty, and lifesaving abilities in water, traits that made them valuable companions for sailors and coastal communities. Wyeth's choice of subject matter could be seen as a commentary on the relationship between humans and nature, or perhaps a nostalgic nod to a time when such animals played a more integral role in society. To understand such cultural references fully, art historians consult breed registries, literature, and maritime records. The meaning of this and similar artworks are always contingent on their social and cultural context.