A French Bulldog Marquis Peeks From the Middle of a Giant Lace Ruff

Bat ears perked up, a fawn French Bulldog marquis poses in a pale pink coat with gold embroidery and golden knotted buttons. A huge ruffled collar of cream lace circles his neck like a flower, and his brown eyes look straight at us with a sweet, serious stare. The wall behind him is pale pink with gold scrolls and clusters of roses, and the whole picture has a delicate, powdered glow.

French Bulldogs are small, sturdy companions known for their funny personalities and love of attention. Because of their short noses, they can have trouble in hot weather, so keep them cool, avoid hard exercise on warm days and always provide water. Their facial wrinkles should be cleaned and dried, and many Frenchies enjoy short walks and indoor play. A vet can give advice on diet and long-term care.

The lace ruff is the star of the portrait, with every loop and ruffle painted in delicate cream tones. It makes the Frenchie's round head look like a flower at the center of a bloom. A marquis in a court like this would be admired for taste and manners, and this one carries himself with such calm that you would swear he picked out the ruff himself.

He may be small, but the dignity he wears is as big as any palace hall.