Press release, 24 November 2024

She was a pampered pooch so beloved by her aristocratic master, he immortalised her in a stunning pet portrait by one of the nation’s most renowned artists.

Now, more than 250 years after she was captured on canvas, Phillis the English pointer has taken up a perfect new cosy spot at Temple Newsam House as winter sets in.

The beautiful oil painting of Lord Clermont’s faithful canine companion has gone on display to visitors for the first time in a number of years, following a loan spell at Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham.

Painted by celebrated artist George Stubbs in 1772, the portrait of Phillis was commissioned by her owner William Henry Fortescue, Lord Clermont, a keen sportsman who kept a sizeable kennel, but who was known to be particularly fond of Phillis.

English pointers like Phillis were especially prized as pets by aristocrats, not least because of their ability to help with hunting and retrieving.

The painting of Phillis shows her in the classic pointing pose the breed would adopt when detecting prey, with her neck stretched forward, forepaw raised and a look of concentration on her face. 

The portrait was created by George Stubbs, who was regarded as the greatest English sporting artist for his unrivalled knowledge of anatomy.

Maya Harrison, principal keeper at Temple Newsam, said: “Phillis has always been much loved here at Temple Newsam and it’s great to have her back on display for visitors while we’re getting the house ready for winter.

“At the time the painting was commissioned, it would have been very unusual for an owner to give their dog a human name, and doing so was a British custom for pets who were particularly doted on.

“The fact that Phillis has been painted by such a prestigious artist too suggests that she was very much a favourite pet, so it’s quite fitting that we’re still taking such good care of her likeness more than 250 years later.”

The painting’s new location is in the house’s Domestic Corridor, meaning visitors will see it when they first enter the building. It is one of more than 300 beautiful fine art paintings and family portraits on display at the house.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “It’s wonderful that we have such a stunning collection of artworks on display for people in Leeds to enjoy in a beautiful location like Temple Newsam.

“Each artwork has its own unique story to tell and being able to see and engage with the site and the collection is a real privilege.”

For more images see: https://news.leeds.gov.uk/news/a-winters-tail-sees-peers-painted-pooch-return-home

For press enquiries, please contact marketing.museums@leeds.gov.uk

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