The Old Shepherd's Chief Mourner

The Old Shepherd's Chief Mourner (1837) by Edwin Landseer is a renowned animal painting exemplifying Romanticism, depicting a loyal collie resting its head on a draped coffin in the Scottish Highlands. Created on a canvas using oil paints, it evokes deep emotion by highlighting themes of loyalty and mourning. The scene suggests that human mourners have departed, leaving the dog in silent vigil, symbolizing the bonds between humans and animals. Displayed at the Royal Academy Exhibition of 1837 and praised by critics, it gained legendary status after John Ruskin's accolades. Today, it resides in the Victoria and Albert Museum.