In Deep Thought (Labrador painting)

In Deep Thought - 7" x 5" oil on hardboard/masonite

Well at last I am starting to recover from a horrible bout of 'flu and would like to thank those who sent good wishes.

Before I get working on commissions again, I thought I'd like to create a painting which would show one of the characteristics of dogs which I value very highly and this is their quality of spirit. I do believe that where dogs have lived in such very close proximity to humans for so very long a time, that they have developed a special quality of soul and are capable of a great depth of emotion which we do not normally associate with any other creatures than humans. I think the expression on this dog demonstrates this well.

Anne

Based on a photograph by Carlos94117 at flickr

Rottweiler

Rottweiler - 5" x 7" oil on hardboard/masonite

I have just managed to get a better photograph of this painting (well remembered to do so to be honest) and thought I would tell you about the first time I got to know a rottweiler. It was many years ago, when we lived in London near Hyde Park. A couple who lived near us had two young rottweilers and the wife told me that her husband had wanted two guard dogs - they were rather wealthy! - but she had wanted two cuddly, pretty dogs and so they settled on rottweilers as being the perfect match. Well, I never discovered how they were at their guard duties, although I suspect very good, but as cuddly, pretty dogs they were perfect and certainly very friendly to those invited to their house, just wanting to play!

It's a shame rottweilers have developed a reputation for aggressiveness because although very strong, when they are properly brought up, they are lovely dogs.

Anne