Papillon

Throughout Europe, the dainty little Papillon was a favourite of ladies of the court, especially in France. It is written that Marie Antoinette carried her pet Papillon with her to the guillotine. The Papillon also appeared regularly in paintings featuring the 17th and 18th century Royal children and ladies at court done by such Old Masters as Rubens, Titian and Van Dyck.

This little dog takes his name from the French word for butterfly - papillon. Not only does he have large fringed ears closely resembling a butterfly's wings, but he also has a thin white blaze between the ears, bisecting the face, that suggests the insect's body.

The Papillon is a hardy little dog descending from dwarf spaniel stock. He is not nearly as delicate as his appearance might suggest, and in fact, greatly enjoys chasing vermin if given the opportunity. As a pet he is delightful, being lively, irrepressible and affectionate, and liking nothing better than being in the company of those to whom he becomes firmly attached.