The artwork titled “Sitting on Cushions Dog” was created by the artist Gustave Courbet in the year 1855. This piece is executed in oil on canvas and is a prime example of the Realism art movement. The dimensions of the artwork are 38 by 46 centimeters, and it falls within the genre of animal painting.
In the artwork, the painter foregrounds a dog as the central subject, comfortably seated on what appears to be luxuriant red cushions. The dog, characterized by a thick, white coat with dark patches, particularly around its ears and eyes, is depicted with a relaxed posture, embodying a sense of tranquility. Gustave Courbet’s realistic painting style is evident in the meticulous rendering of the dog’s fur, which shows texture and depth, an approach typical for the Realism movement. The red cushions provide a warm, contrasting backdrop to the dog’s primarily white fur, giving the composition a sense of coziness and domesticity.
Through precise brushwork and a keen attention to detail, Courbet captures not just the physical likeness of the dog, but also a glimpse into its serene demeanor, suggesting a moment of repose and contentment. The intimate scale of the piece further enhances the feeling of a personal glimpse into the pet’s life, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of such an ordinary scene which, through Courbet’s eyes, becomes a moment worth preserving.
