A Fawn Pug Court Painter Holds His Palette and Gives a Serious Look
Master Gaspard has stepped away from his easel just long enough to look at us, and his wrinkled brow suggests he is already planning the next stroke. The fawn Pug has a soft, sensitive face with a black mask, folded ears and large dark eyes, and he wears a navy velvet coat embroidered with gold leaves under a loose olive cloak, with a white cravat tied at his neck. In one paw he holds a wooden palette crowded with blobs of blue, red, yellow and white, and a bundle of brushes. The dark background is lightly cracked, and a warm light touches his round face.
Pugs are among the oldest toy breeds, with a history reaching back to ancient China, where they were companions to emperors. Today they are known for their charming wrinkled faces, big personalities and love of attention. They are playful, loving and sometimes stubborn, and they often make wonderful family pets. Because of their short noses, Pugs can struggle in the heat and may snore or snort, so keep them cool and avoid hard exercise in warm weather. Their facial wrinkles should be gently cleaned and dried to prevent irritation. Pugs love food and can gain weight easily, so measure meals and keep up daily walks, and ask your vet for guidance. A Pug is happiest close to its people, and a good cuddle goes a long way.
Gaspard's portraits may be a little smudgy, but they are painted with love. Every artist's best subject is the one who sits beside him.
