Reuben Ward Binks stands as a significant figure in the realm of British animal art, particularly renowned for his sensitive and masterfully executed portraits of dogs. Active during the late 19th and first half of the 20th century (1880-1950), Binks carved a distinct niche for himself, earning prestigious commissions, including extensive work for the British Royal Family and prominent international patrons. His ability to capture not just the likeness but the very essence and character of his canine subjects cemented his reputation as a leading animal painter of his era. Primarily working in watercolour, but also adept in drypoint and etching, Binks left behind a legacy of works cherished by art collectors and dog enthusiasts alike.
Early Life and Artistic Awakening
Reuben Ward Binks was born in 1880 in Bolton, a town in Lancashire, England, into a family with farming roots. This rural background may have fostered an early appreciation for animals, though his innate artistic talent soon became evident. A notable early success came at the tender age of ten, when he won a competition organized by the renowned publishing house Raphael Tuck & Sons. His submission of four flower paintings demonstrated a precocious skill and eye for detail, hinting at the artistic path he would eventually follow.
To nurture this burgeoning talent, Binks received formal art education under the guidance of George Perkins. While details about Perkins may be less widely documented than those of major art academy figures, this period of instruction would have been crucial in honing Binks's technical skills in drawing and painting. It laid the foundation for the meticulous observation and refined execution that would later characterize his celebrated dog portraits, transitioning his focus from flora to fauna.
Mastering the Medium: Style and Technique
Binks is most celebrated for his work in watercolour, a medium he handled with exceptional dexterity. His watercolours are characterized by their clarity, luminosity, and the skillful layering of washes to create depth and texture, particularly evident in his rendering of fur. He possessed an uncanny ability to depict the varied coats of different breeds, from the silky sheen of a setter to the dense curls of a terrier, making them look tangible and lifelike.
Beyond watercolour, Binks also employed other techniques, including drypoint and etching. These printmaking methods allowed for the creation of fine lines and rich tonal variations, suitable for capturing the intricate details of his subjects. His proficiency across these media demonstrates a versatile artistic skill set.
However, what truly set Binks apart was his profound ability to capture the "soul" or personality of the dogs he painted. His portraits go beyond mere anatomical accuracy; they convey the alertness in a terrier's eyes, the gentle dignity of a hound, or the playful energy of a spaniel. He paid particular attention to the eyes, often described as the windows to the soul, rendering them with a depth and expressiveness that brought his subjects to life on paper or canvas. His style remained largely realistic, aligning with the strong tradition of British animal painting, yet imbued with a sensitivity that resonated deeply with viewers and patrons.
A Niche Defined: The World of Canine Portraiture
Reuben Ward Binks entered the art world during a period when animal painting, particularly dog portraiture, held a significant place in British art and society. The tradition had been elevated by masters like George Stubbs in the 18th century, whose anatomical precision and noble depictions set a high standard. In the 19th century, Sir Edwin Landseer achieved immense popularity, his often anthropomorphized and sentimental portrayals of animals, especially dogs like the Newfoundland, striking a chord with Victorian sensibilities.
By the time Binks was establishing his career, several contemporaries were also excelling in canine art. Maud Earl was a highly successful female artist known for her lifelike dog portraits, often commissioned by breed enthusiasts and royalty. Arthur Wardle was another prolific painter and sculptor of animals, known for his dynamic compositions. John Emms specialized in depicting hounds and terriers, often in relaxed kennel settings, capturing their individual characters with a robust, painterly style. The work of Cecil Aldin, known for his charming and often humorous depictions of dogs, particularly terriers, also enjoyed wide appeal.
Within this context, Binks carved out his own distinct identity. While sharing the commitment to realism seen in artists like Wardle or Emms, Binks's watercolour technique offered a particular delicacy, and his focus often seemed less on narrative or sporting scenes (though he did depict them) and more on the individual character study of the dog itself. He built upon the legacy of earlier artists like Philip Reinagle and Sawrey Gilpin, who contributed significantly to the development of sporting and animal art in Britain, and stood alongside contemporaries like Wright Barker and Richard Ansdell, who also enjoyed success painting animals and sporting scenes.
Royal Appointments and Prestigious Patronage
A defining aspect of Reuben Ward Binks's career was his long-standing relationship with the British Royal Family. His talent for capturing faithful and engaging likenesses of their beloved canine companions earned him commissions spanning three generations of monarchs. He received patronage from Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, King George V, and King George VI, a remarkable testament to the consistent quality and appeal of his work within the highest circles.
Among the royal dogs immortalized by Binks were the Cairn Terriers belonging to the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) and the Labrador Retrievers owned by the Duke of York (later King George VI). These commissions were not merely prestigious; they placed Binks firmly within the tradition of court painters and significantly enhanced his reputation both nationally and internationally. His royal portraits are noted for their blend of formality appropriate to the subject's owners and the intimate understanding of the individual dog's character. Many of these works remain part of the Royal Collection Trust, preserving a visual record of the Royal Family's canine companions through Binks's skilled hand.
Across the Atlantic: The Geraldine R. Dodge Commission
One of the most significant chapters in Binks's career involved an extended commission in the United States from Mrs. Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge. A prominent heiress (niece of John D. Rockefeller), philanthropist, and a hugely influential figure in the international dog breeding and show world, Mrs. Dodge established the renowned Giralda Farms in Madison, New Jersey. This estate housed extensive kennels featuring numerous champion dogs across various breeds.
Recognizing Binks's exceptional talent, Mrs. Dodge invited him to Giralda Farms. During a period reportedly spanning about two years, Binks undertook the monumental task of painting the likenesses of her prized dogs. He produced over two hundred watercolour portraits during this time, meticulously documenting her champions and favourite companions. This commission was not only lucrative but also provided Binks with unparalleled access to some of the finest canine specimens of the era.
The sheer scale of the Dodge commission highlights Binks's stamina and consistent ability to deliver high-quality work. These watercolours, often characterized by their clean backgrounds focusing attention solely on the dog, form a unique and comprehensive collection, documenting a significant kennel and reflecting the passion of one of the 20th century's most important dog fanciers. This American sojourn further solidified Binks's international reputation as the pre-eminent dog painter of his time.
Notable Works: A Closer Look
While Binks produced a vast body of work, several paintings stand out or are frequently cited as representative of his skill and focus:
Six Bulldogs at Rockcliffe Kennels (1915): This painting is considered historically significant. It depicts six Bulldogs, a breed whose history is intertwined with the now-banned practices of bull-baiting and dog fighting. By 1915, the breed had undergone considerable transformation, thanks to dedicated breeders who aimed to preserve the Bulldog while refining its temperament into the more docile companion known today. Binks's painting captures this moment in the breed's evolution. The work was later gifted to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and is now housed in the AKC Museum of the Dog, underscoring its importance in canine history and art.
Springer Spaniel (Portrait): Often mentioned as an exemplar of his watercolour technique, portraits like this showcase Binks's ability to render the breed's characteristic features – the soft expression, feathered coat, and alert posture – with both accuracy and artistic flair.
English Setter (Portrait): Binks painted numerous gundogs, and his depictions of English Setters are noted for capturing the breed's elegance and athleticism. Works like these demonstrate his understanding of functional conformation as well as aesthetic appeal, making them popular with sporting dog enthusiasts. His skill in this area places him in the lineage of great British sporting artists.
Lemon and White Pointer (1934): This work is highlighted for its masterful handling of colour and light, capturing the distinctive coat pattern and the intense focus characteristic of the breed when pointing game. It exemplifies his mature style and confidence in his medium.
Peter of Crombie (1926): The title suggests a portrait of a specific, named dog, likely a champion or beloved pet. Such works underscore Binks's role as a portraitist, commissioned to create lasting likenesses of individual animals, much like a traditional portrait painter would for human subjects.
Beyond these specific examples, Binks painted a wide array of breeds, including Deerhounds, Japanese Chins, Labrador Retrievers, Cairn Terriers, and many others. Auction records frequently list works depicting various breeds, indicating the breadth of his subject matter and the consistent demand for his art.
Exhibitions, Recognition, and the Art Market
Reuben Ward Binks's work was exhibited during his lifetime, although comprehensive records of specific gallery shows may be sparse compared to artists focused on mainstream genres. However, his inclusion in publications like William Secord's Dog Painting, 1840-1940: A Social History of the Dog confirms his recognized status within the specialized field of animal art history. His association with royal patrons and major collectors like Mrs. Dodge also served as a form of continuous, high-profile exhibition.
The enduring appeal and value of Binks's work are evident in the art market. His paintings, particularly watercolours and signed prints (etchings and drypoints), regularly appear at auction houses specializing in fine art, sporting art, and animal-related works, such as Bonhams and Doyle. Auction catalogues, like those from Grosvenor Gallery or specific Fine Paintings sales mentioned in the source material, list his works, often achieving respectable prices. For instance, mentions of a Black Deerhound selling for £280 and a Japanese Chin for £300 (likely historical prices) indicate a consistent market appreciation for his skill and subject matter. This ongoing market presence reflects his established reputation among collectors.
Beyond the Canvas: Binks and Breed History
Binks's work often intersected with the burgeoning world of organized dog breeding and kennel clubs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His detailed and accurate portraits served not only as aesthetic objects but also as valuable records of breed type and development during a formative period for many modern breeds.
His painting Six Bulldogs at Rockcliffe Kennels is a prime example of this connection. By depicting these dogs in 1915, he provided a visual document of the breed at a specific point in its transition from working dog to show dog and companion. Such works were valued by breeders and breed historians. His commissions from prominent kennel owners like Mrs. Dodge further cemented this link. His art became part of the culture surrounding pedigree dogs, dog shows, and the preservation and refinement of specific breed characteristics. He wasn't just painting dogs; he was documenting canine history as it unfolded.
Legacy and Influence
Reuben Ward Binks secured a lasting legacy as one of Britain's foremost dog painters of the early 20th century. His technical proficiency, particularly in watercolour, combined with an empathetic understanding of his subjects, allowed him to create portraits that were both accurate representations and compelling works of art. He successfully navigated the specialized niche of animal portraiture, achieving a level of recognition and patronage, including consistent royal support, that many artists aspire to.
Compared to the dramatic, often narrative-driven works of Landseer, Binks offered a more direct, intimate portrayal focused on the individual animal. While perhaps less overtly sentimental than Landseer, his work possessed a quiet dignity and warmth. He stands comfortably alongside other dedicated animal specialists of his time like Maud Earl and Arthur Wardle, each contributing their unique style to the genre. His work continued the tradition of detailed animal observation seen in earlier artists like Sawrey Gilpin and Philip Reinagle, while focusing predominantly on canine subjects. While perhaps not as broadly known for other animals as artists like Lucy Kemp-Welch (famous for her horses), Binks's specialization became his strength.
His influence lies in the high standard he set for canine portraiture, demonstrating that animal art could be both technically accomplished and emotionally resonant. His paintings remain highly sought after by collectors of sporting and animal art, as well as by enthusiasts of the specific breeds he depicted. He captured the essence of the human-animal bond, particularly the deep affection between people and their dogs, through his faithful and sensitive portrayals.
Conclusion
Reuben Ward Binks dedicated his artistic life to the portrayal of dogs, elevating the genre through his technical skill, keen observation, and ability to capture the unique personality of each animal. From the kennels of British royalty to the expansive estates of American dog fanciers, his brush brought countless canine companions to life. His work serves as a valuable record of breed history and stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of well-executed animal art. As an artist who truly understood and appreciated his subjects, Binks created a legacy that continues to charm and impress, securing his place as a master of canine portraiture in the annals of British art history.
