Beagle or Braque du Bourbonnais (Canis lupus familiaris), Anselmus Boëtius de Boodt, 1596 - 1610
Hunting was a favorite pastime at the court of Rudolf II, and hunting dogs were an important part of the emperor’s household. The typical stance for these breeds of gundogs is well-observed and captured. The artist skillfully applied colour nuances in the dog’s fur and used the tip of his brush for some white highlights to emphasize his shiny coat.