Plate from l'Assommoir (dancer reclining on bed, with cat) 1878

Gaston La Touche created this print from l'Assommoir depicting a dancer reclining on a bed with a dog. Note the subtle yet potent symbolism of the domestic animal. Since ancient times, dogs have been seen as symbols of loyalty and vigilance, often depicted as guardians, yet here, its presence evokes a complex mix of emotions. It reminds us of the vanitas paintings where animals represent the transient nature of beauty and pleasure. Consider how this motif persists across centuries. From medieval tapestries to Renaissance portraits, animals embody a range of human attributes and societal values. The dog in this print speaks to the sitter’s inner world, her vulnerability, and perhaps a longing for a connection that transcends the fleeting nature of her profession. This print reminds us that images are not static objects but living entities, continually evolving, and speaking to us across time.