A Tiny Pomeranian Countess Steps Out in Strands of Pearls
A black Pomeranian looks out from a cloud of fluffy fur, wearing a lace cap trimmed with a tiny jewel and a ruff as delicate as frost. Strands of pearls drape across a gown of dark blue silk embroidered in gold, and her brown eyes shine with quiet curiosity. The painting is warm and dim, and a single candle glows at the far edge, adding a soft light to her ears. Her tiny paws are hidden under the lace, so all the attention goes to that sweet, round face.
Pomeranians are tiny dogs with big personalities, descended from larger sled-pulling spitz dogs. They are lively, alert and often happy to announce visitors with a bark. Their thick double coat needs regular brushing, and it should never be shaved down to the skin without advice from a groomer or vet. Because they are small, they also need gentle handling and careful supervision around larger pets and children.
Black fur is a wonderful challenge for painters, since the artist has to find the soft highlights in all that dark. Here the glints along the fluff make the countess look almost like velvet herself. The pearls add a pale, creamy contrast, and the lace gives her a dainty appearance that suits her petite frame and cheerful, curious face.
A countess this small may have a big household to run, and she looks perfectly ready for the job. Her fluffy coat might outshine every jewel in the room.
