Alfred Berard and His Dog 1881

Pierre-Auguste Renoir painted "Alfred Berard and His Dog" using oil on canvas. Although undated, it depicts a young man with a hunting rifle and his dog set against a backdrop of lush greenery. Renoir, as a leading figure of the Impressionist movement, often focused on scenes of leisure and modern life. This portrait, however, offers a glimpse into the aristocratic pastimes of the upper class. The act of hunting, traditionally associated with wealth and privilege, positions Bérard within a specific social class. Yet, the relaxed pose and soft brushstrokes humanize him. The inclusion of his dog adds an element of companionship. Is this a portrait of one man’s identity, or is it a statement about the social structures and cultural values of the time? The painting invites us to reflect on our own relationship with nature and leisure, and on the historical roots of these activities.