Chronicled in this monumental volume is the combined encyclopedic collections of the American Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog. Because of the enormity of the two collections, it was impossible to include everything - during the selection process only the very best of the collected works were chosen. The collections are particularly comprehensive, and include not only nineteenth and twentieth century paintings and bronzes, but many watercolours, original prints, silver trophies, porcelains, and antique dog collars, each and every artifact directly related to dogs. Accompanied by an authoritative text, the exceptional combined collection of the AKC and the AKC Museum of the Dog, illustrated here in full colour, not only provide a catalogue but also virtually tell the history of the dog in art. It is in this spirit that the book is organised, starting with the Belgium, Dutch and Flemish art in the collections, countries where dog and animal art originated. England - the true home of dog painting is explored next, then France, and finally America, where animal art was maintained and flourished well into the twentieth century.
The collections depicted in this volume are a testament to our love for the dog, in all its guises, in conformation dog shows, field and obedience trials, in the sporting field and as a pet. They are also a testament to the many artists, some of whom virtually forgotten until recently, who chose to use their insights and artistic skills to portray the dog on canvas, paper and in porcelain and bronze.
