Simon Simonsen (Danish 1841-1928)
Two Dachshund Puppies in a Farmyard
oil on canvas, signed and dated lower right "Simon Simonsen 1901", with inscription on stretcher " Nr. 2 Simon Simonsen To Hvalpe (two puppies)"
Size: 7 ¾ h x 11 w in (with frame 8 ¾ x 12 ¼ in)
J21823
Simon Simonsen was born in Denmark in 1841 and as a boy was taught to paint by his father, Niels Simonsen. Later Simon went to Paris to receive instruction from the artist Rosa Bonheur. Simonsen was awarded scholarships to study in Paris between 1863 and 1869, and travelled and studied in Paris and Rome from the late 1860s until the early 1880s. A great number of the artist’s works were exhibited at the Royal Academy between 1859 and 1921 (241 in total). Simonsen was famous for his paintings of animals, especially horses and dogs. Hunting dogs were a favourite subject matter, which he often depicted in charming or humorous scenes. This painting depicts two Dachshund puppies in an animated farm setting with a chicken. Although a German breed, Dachshunds are very popular Danish dogs and hold a cherished place in traditional Danish culture and celebrated through royal connections, art and local folklore. The breed is often represented in art and design including hand-painted porcelain from Royal Copenhagen and Bing & Grondahl. The former Queen
Margrethe II is an enthusiast and breeder, and her 80th birthday portrait included one of her favourites (Lilia) on the grounds of Fredensborg Castle.