Portrait of a Borzoi
(British School, early 20th century)
Oil on wood panel
Signed and dated "EM 15"
9-1/4 x 14-1/2 inches (16 x 21-1/4 w/frame)
Ex. Burn Hall Manor, County Durham, England   
 
Borzois are large Russian sighthounds that resemble some central Asian breeds such as the Afghan hound and Saluki. Borzois can generally be described as "long-haired greyhounds". Borzois come in virtually any color. The borzoi coat is silky and flat, often wavy or slightly curly. 
 
Borzois are a fairly rare breed though during the early 1900's they enjoyed a brief period as a status symbol. The unusual look of the borzoi fit perfectly with the period's Art Deco aesthetic.