Jocko with a HedgehogEdwin Landseer · 1828

Identification of Jocko with a Hedgehog

In this oil on canvas, we find Jocko with a Hedgehog, a work executed by Edwin Landseer in 1828. The painting captures a specific moment of curiosity between a small animal and a canine companion. While often referred to by the title Portrait of a Terrier, the work is most intimately known by the name of its subject, Jocko.

The commission originated from Owen Williams, who sought to preserve the likeness of his beloved pet. At the time of its creation, Landseer was only twenty-six years old, demonstrating an early command of animal anatomy and character. This piece offers a glimpse into the artist's ability to translate the presence of a living creature onto the linen surface with remarkable precision.

The Composition and Visual Elements

The composition is anchored by the central figure of a white dog, characterized by a dark, black nose, positioned atop a rugged arrangement of rocks. This canine subject is the focal point of the work, its gaze directed toward something unseen in the distance. The placement of the dog creates a sense of quiet anticipation within the natural setting. To the left, a person is visible, adding a human presence to the landscape without detracting from the animal's prominence.

Above the dog, the sky is occupied by two birds in flight, which helps to balance the verticality of the scene. The arrangement of these elements—the terrestrial weight of the rocks and the figure on the left against the airy movement of the birds—creates a balanced, harmonious structure. The interaction between the dog's attentive posture and the surrounding environment suggests a specific, fleeting moment captured in oil on canvas.

Provenance and Collection History

The lineage of this work is deeply rooted in the private collections of the Williams family. It was originally held by Owen Williams, M. P., and subsequently passed through the hands of Col. Peers Williams. The painting remained within the family's stewardship as it moved into the collection of Lt. Gen. Owen Williams.

Later, the piece was part of the collection of Iolo Aneurin Williams, who held it from 1890 until 1962. Following this long period of private ownership, the work entered the public market during an anonymous sale at Sotheby's Belgravia on 9 April 1980.

Exhibition History and Recognition

The history of this work is closely tied to the Royal Academy of Arts. It was first presented there in 1828, appearing under the title Portrait of a Terrier. This early exhibition established the painting's presence within the institutional landscape of British art during the artist's early career.

Following the artist's passing, the painting continued to be recognized in significant retrospectives. In 1874, it was included in the Winter Exhibition titled The Works Of the Late Sir Edwin Henry Landseer at the Royal Academy of Arts. This exhibition served to honor his legacy through a collection of his significant oil works.

The painting's presence in public view continued into the late nineteenth century. It was featured in the 21st Winter Exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts in 1890. During that same year, it was also included in the Exhibition Of Works by the Old Masters and Deceased Masters of British Schools. These appearances reflect the enduring interest in the artist's ability to capture the character of his subjects.