The Admiral Studied the River and Prepared to Give the Order to Sail
Wiry gray eyebrows and a bushy beard give this Miniature Schnauzer admiral a no-nonsense expression. He wears a navy velvet coat with a gold-fringed epaulette, thin gold trim along the collar, and a row of golden buttons down the front. Behind him a Renaissance valley winds toward misty hills, a river, and tall cypress trees under a pale blue sky. He seems to be studying the water, ready to give the order to sail. The gold buttons catch the light like small coins.
The painter kept the coat plain and dark, which gives the shining gold epaulette and the pale landscape room to breathe. Look closely at the cracks across the surface, which give the portrait the feel of an old treasure found in an attic.
Miniature Schnauzers are small, sturdy dogs that were once farm helpers, and they still have the alert, hardworking spirit of a good watchdog. They love their families and enjoy walks and puzzle games. Their wiry coat needs regular grooming and trimming, and the beard may need cleaning after meals. They are prone to weight gain, so measured meals matter, and your vet can help with diet. Early training helps keep barking in check. A secure leash is wise on walks near water.
The fleet is lucky to have him, though he would prefer to stay close to the shore, and the kitchen.
