English Spaniel Oil Painting

Chalon, Henry Bernard (1771-1849).
English Spaniel.
Oil on canvas.
Signed and dated lower right: "H.B. Chalon pinx. 1801).
19 1/4" x 23" visible, 23 2/3" x 27 1/2" framed.
Henry Bernard Chalon, the son of a Dutch etcher and musician, was born in London in 1771. He studied painting at the Royal Academy, and by the age of 22 was a regular exhibitor at the Academy. A prolific painter at a young age, Chalon was made Animal Painter to the Duchess of York in 1795. Later Chalon was named as the official Animal Painter to the Prince Regent and William IV. In 1827 he collaborated with his brother-in-law, William Ward, on a series of horse racing illustrations for Sporting Magazine. Chalon is best known for his portraits of horses, dogs and cattle and was well patronized throughout his career.
Many of Chalon's paintings are of animals that belonged to various members of the royal family. This portrait of a spaniel was likely painted for the Duchess of York, Princess Frederica Charlotte Ulrica (1764-1820), a dedicated dog lover, while Chalon was under her patronage. Chalon was known for his attention to detail and the anatomical correctness of his animals, which can clearly be seen in this charming work.