A Basset Hound Huntsman Pauses in Green Velvet Before the Hunt
Dark green velvet, a row of brass buttons and a white cravat make a very proper outfit for a huntsman, and the tricolor Basset Hound wearing it looks ready for the morning's outing. His long brown ears frame a white blaze and tan cheeks, and his deep, sorrowful eyes look into the distance. Behind him, a soft column and pale drapery hint at a grand house, where the horn is about to sound.
If any dog is suited to a huntsman's costume, it is the Basset Hound, since the breed was developed to follow scent trails with patience and stubborn determination. That nose is powerful, so a leash or secure fence is smart during walks, because a Basset on a scent can forget all about coming when called. Long ears need regular cleaning, and keeping the dog at a healthy weight protects that long back.
The painter shows the Basset in a quiet, thoughtful pose, with none of the usual galloping action of hunting scenes. That makes the portrait feel gentle and a little humorous, since the huntsman looks far more likely to sniff the flowers than chase anything. The green of the coat matches the muted gray-green of the room, and the gold stitching adds just enough sparkle to keep things lively.
Some hunters rush ahead, but this one prefers to take his time and enjoy every smell along the way.
