Hund / Chien / Dog / Cane / Hond 1829 - 1880

This print of a dog is made by firma Joseph Scholz. Its title is multilingual, translating to dog in German, French, English, Italian and Dutch. At first glance, it seems like just a classic animal portrait. But how does this image negotiate the power dynamics between humans and animals? What does it mean to classify, name, and represent another being? Think about how throughout history, certain breeds have been associated with specific social classes or roles. In the 19th century dogs were coded as symbols of fidelity, status, and even racial purity. Consider how the act of naming and categorizing can reflect human desires to control and define the natural world. This image isn't just a picture of a dog; it's a reflection of our complex relationship with the animal kingdom, imbued with the power structures of language and representation.