John Emms

A seated Collie

John Emms (1841-1912) "Ruff", a collie Oil on canvas Signed and dated '95 lower right Inscribed 'Ruff' lower centre Canvas Size - 15 x 18 in Framed Size - 20 1/2 x 23 1/2 in Provenance The Collection of Charlie Watts. Charlie Watts, the legendary drummer of The Rolling Stones, was renowned not only for his musical prowess but also for his profound affection for animals, particularly Collies. He and his wife, Shirley, resided at Halsdon Manor in Devon, where they managed a stud farm for Arabian horses. Their estate was also home to numerous dogs, reflecting their deep commitment to animal welfare. John Emms was a British artist best known for his dynamic and characterful paintings of dogs, especially working breeds like foxhounds, terriers, and collies. Born in Blofield, Norfolk, in 1843, Emms developed a deep connection to the countryside and rural life, which became the heart of his artistic inspiration. While he painted horses and hunting scenes, it was his dog portraits that brought him enduring recognition. Emms had a remarkable ability to capture the individuality and spirit of each animal, portraying them not just as pets or working animals, but as noble and expressive beings. His brushwork was confident and lively, and he often painted dogs with a sense of pride, intelligence, and dignity. Among the many breeds he painted, collies held a special place. Emms portrayed them with great sensitivity, often emphasizing their alert expressions, soft coats, and loyal nature. His collie paintings...

John Emms (1841-1912) "Bob", a collie in a landscape Oil on canvas Signed and dated 1904 lower right Inscribed 'Bob' lower centre Canvas Size - 20 x 24 in Framed Size - 24 x 28 in Provenance The Collection of Charlie Watts. Charlie Watts, the legendary drummer of The Rolling Stones, was renowned not only for his musical prowess but also for his profound affection for animals, particularly Collies. He and his wife, Shirley, resided at Halsdon Manor in Devon, where they managed a stud farm for Arabian horses. Their estate was also home to numerous dogs, reflecting their deep commitment to animal welfare. John Emms was a British artist best known for his dynamic and characterful paintings of dogs, especially working breeds like foxhounds, terriers, and collies. Born in Blofield, Norfolk, in 1843, Emms developed a deep connection to the countryside and rural life, which became the heart of his artistic inspiration. While he painted horses and hunting scenes, it was his dog portraits that brought him enduring recognition. Emms had a remarkable ability to capture the individuality and spirit of each animal, portraying them not just as pets or working animals, but as noble and expressive beings. His brushwork was confident and lively, and he often painted dogs with a sense of pride, intelligence, and dignity. Among the many breeds he painted, collies held a special place. Emms portrayed them with great sensitivity, often emphasizing their alert expressions, soft coats, and loyal nature. His collie paintings...

This charming portrait of a Collie dog by Frederick French, painted circa 1896, captures the loyal and calm nature of one of the most beloved breeds. French's delicate attention to d...

An English late 19th century oil painting of a dog sitting in an armchair with red cushion in giltwood frame. This exquisite animal painting features a short hair caramel colored dog, majestically sitting in a chair, in a manner reminiscent of Velasquez' depiction of Pope Innocent X. A red cushion, whose deep tones contrast beautifully with the dog's coat, assures us that the dog is very comfortable! Dog portraits became popular during the 18th century among the hunting aristocracy, and the establishment of The Kennel Club in 1873, further encouraged their popularity. This portrait is a perfect example of this trend. Set inside a lovely giltwood frame, this vertical format English dog portrait...