The General Polished Every Medal and Then Gave a Very Serious Look
Bushy eyebrows, a silvery beard, and a very serious face make this Miniature Schnauzer look every inch the veteran general. His black uniform has a gold collar and large gold epaulettes, a red and gold sash crosses his chest, and a row of medals and a star-shaped decoration hangs over his heart. The paint is covered with a web of fine cracks, and a single candle glows at the left edge, lighting one side of his beard and leaving the rest in shadow. It is a portrait with the weight of a long career.
The painter did something lovely with the Schnauzer's whiskers: each gray bristle is painted separately, so the beard looks wiry and real. Together with the craquelure, it gives the whole canvas the feel of a well-loved heirloom.
Miniature Schnauzers are sturdy, alert small dogs that were originally farm companions and ratters. They are smart, lively, and usually devoted to their families, and they can be good watchdogs, which sometimes means a lot of barking. Their wiry coat sheds little but needs regular grooming, including trimming of the beard and brushing. They enjoy walks and games and do well with consistent training. Because some can be prone to weight gain, measure meals carefully, and talk to your vet about diet.
Few generals have guarded a household with such serious devotion, and none has asked for so little other than a treat.
