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The Kennel with Mother and Puppies

In eighteenth-century Europe, animal science enjoyed a surge in popularity, an indicator of society’s increasingly sentimental, and even respectful, mindset towards animals. The modelers at Meissen responded to this rise in interest in animals by creating figures and wares depicting both real and fantastical creatures. Regardless of the form they took, animals added whimsy and imagination to the basic porcelain idea and became one of the most enduring themes in porcelain production. The charming Kennel with Mother and Puppies was envisioned and modeled by Johann Joachim Kändler, perhaps the most important artist in Meissen’s earliest years. Perched atop a red-roofed doghouse, a black-and-white-spaniel keeps a lookout for her three puppies, which are safely sheltered inside, resting on a bed of porcelain “straw.” Beside the kennel rests a bowl of bones for the young family to gnaw. Though Kändler created several variations on the kennel theme, this is the only known version with puppies inside, a technically complex achievement that adds a delightful and heart-warming surprise to the scene.

German, founded 1710 Kennel with Mother and Puppies, ca. 1734 Hard-paste porcelain The Antiquarians Collection; Purchase, 2023

A Word from Bianca, Dixon Intern 2023

This creative piece is a great addition to the prestigious collection of The Dixon Gallery and Garden. The sight of the mother sitting on top of the doghouse is a symbolism of protection as her puppies are resting inside. The Kennel with Mother and Puppies is evident and very heartwarming.