Chien de l'Islande 1755

I stumbled upon these historical images today and would like to continue sharing discoveries. The image is an engraving from 1755, engraved by Gaillard after a drawing by Jacques de Sève.

The French naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, mentioned the Icelandic dog – "chien de l'Islande" – in his work "Histoire naturelle, générale et particulière," which he published in the 18th century.

Buffon described the Icelandic dog as a medium-sized animal particularly adapted to the harsh climate of Iceland. He noted that the dog had a thick, dense, and weather-resistant coat that helped it survive in the cold and damp northern climate. Buffon emphasized the robustness and hardworking character of the Icelandic dog and considered it an important companion for Icelandic shepherds and farmers.

He described the Icelandic dog as brave, energetic, and vigilant, qualities that made it especially suited for herding sheep and other animals. Its attentive and lively nature made it a valuable guardian and protector.

The engraving of a dog against the stark Icelandic landscape accompanied his description in his monumental work “Histoire Naturelle.”