Puppy Power in the Museum of Fine Arts
Humans have always been surrounded by dogs. These two species have been co-evolving for many thousands of years. This kind of relationship is certainly unique among those who populate the Earth. The question is why are dogs closer to us more than any other animal? Let’s travel back in time when wild wolves figured out that being close and following humans is a good way to make a living. People got to used to these curious animals and tolerated, accepted their approach. The ones that got along with people survived and overcame the vicivitudes of life. Since then they became highly valued as part of the family and our lives.

We can say that generally dogs symbolize faith and loyalty in paintings since a dog's being is made up of nothing but love and loyalty. It is obvious that a dog lover sees the picture from a different aspect and we completely agree with that. The one who has experienced this special bond cannot do otherwise. Through history dogs remained constant companions and had been portrayed as protectors and friends by arts. There are many proofs of this association and friendship when you take a visit to the exhibition halls of Budapest's Museum of Fine Arts.
Dogs can be found in many scenes of life in pictures. You can see portraits of children holding or playing with their dogs. They have even entered such holy places as churches and represented among angels as well. Medieval markets were often subjects of paintings with resting dogs in it. People brought puppies into their homes for many reasons and for certain jobs. Ancient humans realized that dogs can be kept not just for guardiance and herding but they are also good companions inside the house. People didn’t even mind dogs being around because for example they provided warmth at night on cooler days. During the tour of the exhibitons you can tell how many different breeds of dogs were living beside humans. Even then, it didn't matter to the dogs that someone was rich or poor.

As dogs became more domesticated they became companion animals. Dog portraits became increasingly popular in the 18th century when they were depicted differently in the paintings to symbolize guidance, protection, loyalty, faithfulness and love. Hunting scenes were also popular in the Middle Ages and Renaissence and some of them can be found in the Museum. We definitely recommend that you visit these pictures as well in the permanent exhibitions. Gigantic breeds of dogs are considered as status symbols: they were generally connected to the aristocracy. They were allowed to live in the house and were regarded by the upper classes. We don’t need to convince you of the benefits of keeping a puppy. Let the pictures tell the story of this special and wonderful bond!

After you have seen the exhibiton at the Museum of Fine Arts and would like to organize your programs around an animal theme we recommend to take a walk in the Budapest Zoo nearby where you are able to observe the very large variety of species from close up. If you have visited every corner of the Zoo, take part in a unique gastronomic experience at the famous Gundel Restaurant if you want to taste the typical flavors of Hungary.
