Dogs watching us / us watching dogs
Animal portraits #2
Each of these dogs presents a distinct, articulate expression of mood and temperament. They are as readable as humans. Perhaps more so, given the unguarded honesty in face and stance. I wonder if you see them as I do, or if I am anthropomorphizing, imagining communicative clarity.
Because of fewer facial muscles, cats’ expressions are said to be harder to interpret, but when you know them, both species good at conveying contentment, playfulness, fear, anxiety, annoyance, etc., but also, sadly, all too adept at hiding pain. Even purring, generally seen as a marker of pleasure in cats, can be used for self-soothing by a distressed puss.
Here’s an online quiz for assessing your ability to recognize cat expressions.
The junkyard dog photograph feels like a classic painting by an old master. Those steaks of rust are part of it, but the dog’s expression is the rest -- he’s like the reincarnation of a Hapsburg king. Amazing.
Nice! Great portraits, each in its own context and environment.