Who Do You Love c. 1891 - 1892

John George Brown’s painting depicts a young boy and a dog, their faces close, eyes locked in mutual regard. The dog, a common symbol of loyalty and companionship, sits obediently, its gaze fixed upwards towards the boy, who looks back with a mix of affection and expectation. This seemingly simple scene is laden with cultural echoes. The motif of human-animal bond is ancient, harking back to classical depictions of Diana, goddess of the hunt, with her hounds. Here, the class dynamic is also on display. The boy’s posture and clothing suggest a working-class background, indicative of a different sort of bond, one of shared existence and reliance. The direct, unfiltered gaze between boy and dog speaks to a primal, emotional connection, a bond of mutual dependence and affection. This dynamic evokes a powerful, subconscious response, reminding us of the deep-seated human need for connection and belonging. The image resonates with emotional strength. It invites us to ponder the evolving symbolism of the dog and the psychological dimensions of human-animal relationships. The boy and his dog create an exchange that’s both timeless and deeply personal.