New Foundland dog 1813 - 1872

This print by Andreas Flinch depicts a Newfoundland dog rescuing a child from the water. The dog, a symbol of loyalty and protection, dominates the scene, its large form and determined expression conveying a sense of urgency and care. The motif of the rescuing animal has deep roots, echoing ancient myths and legends, like the Roman legend of Romulus and Remus raised by a she-wolf. Here, the dog assumes a similar nurturing role, embodying primal instincts of guardianship. The child's outstretched arms, a gesture of supplication, also recur throughout art history, symbolizing vulnerability and dependence. Consider how the symbol of the dog has been used throughout time, shifting from a representation of wildness to one of domesticity and companionship. Its presence here taps into our collective memory, triggering an emotional response tied to themes of safety, reliance, and the profound connection between humans and animals. This image resonates because it speaks to our deepest fears and hopes, and the age-old desire for a protector.