The true star in this portrait is his gorgeous greyhound. Van Dyck reveals himself as a master of realism with his uncanny portrayal of Stuart's dog. Whenever I see this painting it's the greyhound that holds my attention. How did Van Dyck get the fur so subtle and soft while also giving the dog's musculature such definition? Even with all the finery and fanfare atop James Stuart, the greyhound steals the show in a naked and natural state.

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