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John Emms"Bobs" a collie
$16,408.94
$24,613.4033% Off
£12,000
£18,00033% Off
€14,102.97
€21,154.4633% Off
CA$22,838.78
CA$34,258.1733% Off
A$24,501.92
A$36,752.8833% Off
CHF 13,142.33
CHF 19,713.4933% Off
MX$294,999.86
MX$442,499.7933% Off
NOK 165,674.47
NOK 248,511.7033% Off
SEK 151,072.16
SEK 226,608.2333% Off
DKK 105,368.02
DKK 158,052.0233% Off
About the Item
John Emms (1841-1912)
"Bobs", a collie
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated 1901 lower right
Inscribed 'Bobs' lower centre
Canvas Size - 24 x 30 in
Framed Size - 31 x 36 1/2 in
Provenance
The Collection of Charlie Watts.
Charlie Watts, the legendary drummer of The Rolling Stones, was renowned not only for his musical prowess but also for his profound affection for animals, particularly Collies. He and his wife, Shirley, resided at Halsdon Manor in Devon, where they managed a stud farm for Arabian horses. Their estate was also home to numerous dogs, reflecting their deep commitment to animal welfare.
John Emms was a British artist best known for his dynamic and characterful paintings of dogs, especially working breeds like foxhounds, terriers, and collies. Born in Blofield, Norfolk, in 1843, Emms developed a deep connection to the countryside and rural life, which became the heart of his artistic inspiration.
While he painted horses and hunting scenes, it was his dog portraits that brought him enduring recognition. Emms had a remarkable ability to capture the individuality and spirit of each animal, portraying them not just as pets or working animals, but as noble and expressive beings. His brushwork was confident and lively, and he often painted dogs with a sense of pride, intelligence, and dignity.
Among the many breeds he painted, collies held a special place. Emms portrayed them with great sensitivity, often emphasizing their alert expressions, soft coats, and loyal nature. His collie paintings, like many of his dog portraits, were popular among dog lovers and country estate owners in Victorian and Edwardian England.
His works such as Callum (a Dandie Dinmont Terrier) and The New Forest Foxhounds exemplify his skill at rendering texture, anatomy, and personality. These paintings remain highly sought after by collectors today and are featured in major collections, including the National Gallery of Scotland.
John Emms continued painting dogs until late in his life, and his legacy lives on through these warm and vivid tributes to man’s best friend. His work remains a high point in the tradition of 19th-century British animal portraiture.
- Creator:John Emms (1843-1912, British)
- Dimensions:Height: 31 in (78.74 cm)Width: 36.5 in (92.71 cm)
- Medium:
- Movement Style:
- Period:
- Condition:
- Gallery Location:Stoke, GB
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU446316369482
John Emms
John Emms first exhibited in the Royal Academy in 1866. Known for his equestrian and canine portraits, his most interesting works were the dogs, with a particular fondness for foxhounds and terriers. Using bold, loose brushwork and ample paint, Emms created portraits that were sentimental and that expressed vitality.

About the Seller
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Associations
LAPADA - The Association of Arts
Antiques DealersInternational Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers
AssociationsThe British Antique Dealers
Association
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Andover, United Kingdom
- Return Policy
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