White Greyhound 

Jean-Baptiste Oudry painted this White Greyhound sometime in the first half of the 18th century. Oudry was a master of animal portraiture, a genre that catered to the aristocratic tastes of the French court. But this isn't just a picture of a dog. The greyhound, with its sleek, elegant form, was a symbol of nobility and hunting prowess. Oudry’s decision to portray the dog mid-stride, rather than in a static pose, adds dynamism. Note its brilliant white coat, a visual signifier of the aristocracy's wealth and privilege, who could afford to keep such animals purely for sport. Oudry became director of the Beauvais tapestry factory in 1926, which suggests a deep understanding of decoration and design. The painting reflects the values and interests of a society deeply invested in maintaining its hierarchical structures. Further research into French court culture of the period could reveal a great deal about Oudry's choices. Ultimately, the meaning of this artwork resides in this historical and institutional context.