Art Up Close: Dogs and People

"Whoever loves me loves my dog too" - these words are traditionally attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux in the 12th century. Dogs have accompanied humans for millennia and are the most frequently depicted animals in art.

This lecture examines works by Old Masters from a "canine" perspective. It reveals the hidden meanings, moral messages, and humorous allegories concealed in the presence of dogs in paintings by artists such as R. Savery, F. van Mieris, C. Saftleven, A. van Ostade, and H. Raphon. The lecture is given by art historian Jitka Handlová.

This programme is part of the "Art Up Close" series, which focuses on specific parts of the collections. Each programme offers a perspective on a particular theme and places it in a broader context that helps viewers better understand the whole.