Dog Paws n.d.

Sawrey Gilpin created this graphite drawing, "Dog Paws", during the 18th century. Gilpin, an animal painter, came from a family of artists. In his time, the depiction of animals was often intertwined with social and class dynamics. The elite, who commissioned such works, used animal portraiture to reflect their status and connection to the land. In this study, the anatomical detail suggests a focus on the physicality of the dog, reducing the animal to a set of legs and paws. This almost clinical observation strips away the emotional connection that is often associated with depictions of animals, particularly pets. Gilpin’s drawing speaks to the complex relationship between humans and animals, reflecting how they can be both subjects of affection and objects of study or utility. The clinical style invites us to consider the multiple ways in which we perceive animals: as companions, symbols of status, or subjects of scientific interest.