Preliminary identification

Original Pastel Portrait of a Dog with Bone, dated 1973

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

This is an endearing, original mid-century pastel portrait depicting a shaggy dog playfully guarding a large bone. Rendered with a soft, expressive touch, the artist captures the soulful gaze and textured fur of the pet with remarkable warmth. It is signed and dated '11/'73' in the upper right quadrant, serving as a charming snapshot of 1970s domestic pet portraiture.

Story

Created in November 1973, this portrait captures the timeless bond between humans and their pets. Commissioned pet portraits boomed in the post-war era as dogs firmly transitioned from outdoor working animals to beloved indoor family members.

Maker / Origin

While the stylized signature appears to read 'Chaf...' or similar, the artist remains unidentified, suggesting they were a talented local portraitist or regional illustrator. During the 1970s, many skilled artists made a living traveling to local art fairs or taking commissions through local pet shops and veterinary offices.

Condition & Value

The pastel drawing appears to be in good condition, housed under glass which has protected the delicate medium from smudging. There is some minor waving to the paper and light dust under the glass. The simple black metal frame shows minor age-related wear. Excellent preservation of the pastel medium itself keeps the value stable.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.