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Double Study of the Head of a Dromedary

ca. 1669–71

Not on view

Boel’s double study of a dromedary’s head reveals the artist’s keen observation and great skill in rendering its hair. The British author and lexicographer Dr. Samuel Johnson had difficulties differentiating between a dromedary and a camel while visiting the Menagerie. He reported in 1775 that he saw "the Camel or dromedary with two bunches." The wild and unfamiliar creatures were among the main tourist attractions at Versailles.

Double Study of the Head of a Dromedary, Pieter Boel (1622–1674), Oil on canvas — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Double Study of the Head of a Dromedary

Artist: Pieter Boel (1622–1674)

Date: ca. 1669–71

Medium: Oil on canvas

Dimensions: Unframed: 21 1/4 × 25 9/16 in. (54 × 65 cm)
Framed: 24 13/16 × 28 15/16 in. (63 × 73.5 cm)

Classification: Paintings

Credit Line: Musée du Louvre, Paris, Département des Peintures, Collection de Louis XIV (3987)

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European Sculpture and Decorative Arts at The Met

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