Charles Frederick Sitzler 1954 Portrait of “Penny” English Cocker Spaniel

A midcentury portrait of “Penny,” an English Cocker Spaniel, signed and dated lower left by C. Fred Sitzler in 1954. The artist is identifiable as Charles Frederick Sitzler Jr., also known as C. Frederick Sitzler Jr. or C. Fred Sitzler, an American painter (1905-1990) associated with portraits of dogs and horses.

Painted in oil on canvas mounted to board, the work presents Penny in a direct, attentive pose against a soft blue-green background. Sitzler gives careful attention to the dog’s golden coat, long feathered ears, dark eyes, and small white chest marking, capturing both the physical character of the English Cocker Spaniel and the warmth of a commissioned companion portrait. The handling is straightforward and affectionate, with enough painterly texture to keep the image from feeling overly polished or commercial.

The painting is displayed in a decorative molded frame with a weathered gray finish and gilt accents, a fitting contrast to the warm ochre and honey tones of the dog’s coat. The reverse retains a label identifying the subject as “Penny,” English Cocker Spaniel, and noting the work as an artist commission. The label also references Jane St. Lifer Art, Inc. and Marcia and Martin St. Lifer of Summit, New Jersey.

A charming and personal midcentury animal portrait, well suited for a library, study, gallery wall, country house interior, or traditional setting.

Height: 16 in (40.64 cm)

Width: 14 in (35.56 cm)

Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)