The Spirit of the Dog: An Illustrated History - Hardcover

Tamsin Pickeral; Victoria Stilwell

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0711233861 ISBN 13: 9780711233867

Publisher: Frances Lincoln, 2012

Synopsis

Dogs formed an allegiance with humans in early prehistory and this was the beginning of a unique bond between dog and human that has endured some 14,000 years. Since then, there have been numerous momentous events through history at which the dog has been present: following or leading troops into battle, lurking in the shadows of official business, seated on the laps of emperors, and curled sleeping during spiritual and religious occasions.

The Spirit of the Dog explores the long and varied history of the dog in human cultures across the world and celebrates the very special place that this enigmatic creature holds in people s hearts. Established author and animal specialist Tamsin Pickeral examines the development of the major dog breeds within their historic context from the slender, powerful sight hounds to the hard-working Siberian Husky, the spirited Terrier breeds, and the personable mongrels. Grouped according to their key characteristics including Elegance and Speed, Power and Strength, Devotion and Loyalty, Agility and Wisdom the breeds are each studied in comprehensive detail.

As a mammal species the dog is the most varied in shape, size, and color, and also the most versatile, whether working as a hunter, protector, or simply providing companionship as a domestic pet. The Spirit of the Dog celebrates this diversity, aided by the stunning photography of contemporary animal photographer Astrid Harrisson, whose striking, beautiful, and unusual images of our major dog breeds skillfully reflect the virtues of 'man s best friend.' With evocative text and exceptional photography, this is an essential volume for everyone who loves dogs.

About this title

Review:

'This book should come with a warning for would-be readers and dog lovers alike - one glance and you'll be hooked. In both pictures and story,  The Spirit of the Dog captures the essence of our canine companions and why we have such an unbreakable bond with them.'

'Will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about dogs, from elegant Saluki hounds to boisterous terriers. Astrid Harrisson's gorgeous photography is the finishing touch.'

‘This beautiful book celebrates the fact that dogs have a unique spirit that is intertwined with ours with its stunning photographs and well-researched text. This is a beautifully produced book making it worth every penny of its asking price.’

'A superb book that is a must for all dog lovers.'

‘ This is a book sent from heaven for the ardent dog love. The Spirit of the Dog is not only beautifully presented, but beautifully written too. A truly engaging and fascinating exploration of man’ s best friend.’

‘ This beautiful book celebrates the fact that dogs have a unique spirit that is intertwined with ours with its stunning photographs and well-researched text. This is a beautifully produced book making it worth every penny of its asking price.’

'A Gift for Dog Lovers'

'This book is an artistic Tour de Force. Beautifully presented and exquisitely photographed, it is a cofee-table book that is well worth reading too. This book is a paen to these wonderful animals, an evocative record of the breeds and a majestic celebration of our faithful companions. A must have.'

'Will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about dogs, from elegant Saluki hounds to boisterous terriers. Astrid Harrisson's gorgeous photography is the finishing touch.'

'This book should come with a warning for would-be readers and dog lovers alike - one glance and you'll be hooked. In both pictures and story,  The Spirit of the Dog captures the essence of our canine companions and why we have such an unbreakable bond with them.'

About the Author:

TAMSIN PICKERAL is an art historian and animal expert. She has been a devoted dog owner her entire life and has lived in Europe and North America, where she has worked as a veterinary nurse for many years. She is a widely published author who has written a number of books on animal themes, including The Dog: 5000 Years of the Dog in Art, chosen by the Guardian as one of the top fifty art books of 2009.
ASTRID HARRISSON has more than ten years of industry experience in graphic design, photography, creative direction and marketing. She began photographing animals in early 2008, working on a ranch high in the hills of northwest Argentina, where a lifelong adoration of all things animal fused dramatically with her creative side.
Tamsin and Astrid have recently collaborated on the highly acclaimed The Majesty of the Horse.
VICTORIA STILWELL is a world-renowned dog trainer best known as the star of the internationally acclaimed TV series, It s Me or the Dog. A bestselling author, Stilwell frequently appears in the media as a pet expert and is widely recognized and respected as a leader in the field of animal behavior.

About this edition

• Publisher: Frances Lincoln
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 0711233861
• ISBN 13: 9780711233867
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 288
• Illustrator: Astrid Harrisson