May I introduce you to "Duke"

"Duke", Pastel, 10"x8"

My latest pet portrait commission.  Duke is now at Rainbow Bridge.  He was a Redbone Coonhound. His owner rescued him and loved him dearly.  She said he was a very loving and sweet dog and she will miss him immensely.  How could you not with that adorable look on his face!

I so enjoyed working on this painting!  I think I had a smile on my face the whole time.  The referance photo was very small and when enlarged, I lost a lot of detail, but determined to make it work.  I also researched "redbone coonhounds", just to get familiar with that breed, and I have learned how photos can change coloring.  So, luckily, the owner lived within a good distance, and I visited her with several referance photos, and we discussed coloring of his coat.  I later sent her an email with color swatches I had come up with.  She approved one and off I went.  Below, you will see my work in progress.  When I visited her for the final approval--she said "perfect"--whewww!  So I was so happy to leave "Duke" with her.  I sure hope she sends me a photo of it hanging in her office.

ENJOY!!