Who painted Two Beagles, One Sleeping?

Two Beagles, One Sleeping was painted by Jan Fyt in 1642.

Where can I see Two Beagles, One Sleeping?

Two Beagles, One Sleeping is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Two Beagles, One Sleeping?

Two Beagles, One Sleeping is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Two Beagles, One Sleeping?

Museum-quality prints of Two Beagles, One Sleeping are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Two Beagles, One Sleeping

Jan Fyt , 1642

Two Beagles, One Sleeping is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jan Fyt. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1642, this etching on laid paper presents a quiet moment between two beagles.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1642, this etching on laid paper presents a quiet moment between two beagles. One animal lies in repose while the other stands nearby, its front paws resting on a rock or log, gazing down at its companion. The scene is set against an indistinct natural backdrop that hints at grass and distant foliage.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures a simple, intimate interaction between the dogs, emphasizing themes of companionship and vigilance. By juxtaposing sleep with attentive watchfulness, the image reflects a subtle narrative of protection and the everyday life of hunting companions in the 17th‑century countryside.

Technique & Style

Executed in the Baroque tradition, the etching demonstrates meticulous line work that renders the texture of the beagles’ fur and the surrounding terrain. Careful modulation of light and shadow creates a sense of volume, while the balanced composition guides the viewer’s eye across the two figures and the supporting rock.

History & Provenance

The piece originates from Jan Fyt, a Flemish artist renowned for his animal and still‑life subjects. Fyt’s reputation for precise animal studies is evident here, and the etching forms part of his broader output that combined hunting motifs with detailed natural observation.

Context

During the mid‑1600s, Flemish Baroque art often celebrated the vitality of the natural world and the activities of the aristocratic hunt. Fyt’s focus on dogs aligns with contemporary interests in depicting the tools and companions of hunting, while his etching technique allowed for wider dissemination of such images.