
Leo Webster
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Senior Specialist
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A pamphlet accompanying the publication of the print described the origin of the subject.
'A French Poodle , the property of Count D'Orsay, was resting on a table in the attitude represented by the artist, when it was remarked by a certain noble and learned Lord who was present, and who, from having held the seals, was certainly a competent judge, that "the animal would make a capital Lord Chancellor".'
The learned judge in question was later identified by James Manson as Lord Brougham.
It was suggested that the picture was intended to satirize known individuals on the bench or in the privy council.