Reuben Ward Binks Biography-- Reuben Ward Binks made his mark in the art world as a highly skilled painter of dogs of all breeds, particularly sporting dog breeds. In his day, Binks enjoyed great acclaim and popularity from high society as well as from the general public, who were exposed to his work through reproduced prints....... While Binks was born into an agricultural background, he began painting at a young age and early on found himself accepting commissions to complete pet portraits. His considerable skill in portraying dog breeds caused his portraits to become collectable pieces of art. Binks typically used watercolors and gouache, and less frequently painted in oils. He is known for painting side views of his canine subjects, often placed within detailed backgrounds. In addition to his commissions, Binks worked as an illustrator of dog breeds....... Binks received commissions from dog owners in England and the United States and even painted some of the sporting dogs of Indian royalty. One of his chief patrons in the United States was Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge, who founded St. Huberts Giralda animal shelter in 1939. She commissioned over 200 works from Binks. Many were sold at auction by Sothebys in the 1970s, but some are still on display at the animal shelter....... Binks’ paintings of dogs have been exhibited in England and the United States and many pieces are currently held by the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog. His paintings are an invitation to enter an intimate setting and reflect on the splendor of our favorite breeds.