Motherhood - A collie with puppies

This charming oil study was probably executed by Ansdell for a friend, to commemorate a new litter of puppies. Ansdell's skill at replicating the texture of the dogs' fur is much in evidence; at best, his animal paintings stand comparison with Landseer's.

We are grateful to Sarah Kellam, who is working on a biography of the artist, for her help in preparing this catalogue entry.