6. Death Portraiture for Pets
In the Victorian era, it was common to commission portraits of deceased pets, sometimes even photographing or painting them post-mortem. This practice showcased the growing sentimental value attached to animals and further blurred the line between human and animal mourning. For example, the painting “The Old Shepherd’s Chief Mourner” by Edwin Landseer depicts a faithful collie mourning its owner. Additionally, the sculpture “Bashaw” by Matthew Cotes Wyatt, created in 1831, is a lifesize marble depiction of a Newfoundland dog, reflecting the era’s appreciation for animal companions (en.wikipedia.org). These artworks highlight the deep emotional connections Victorians had with their pets.
