Buttoned into a ceremonial uniform with gilded epaulettes, a goat poses with the gravity of an old general painted by the masters of centuries past. Its proud beard and piercing stare, set against a formal portrait backdrop, blend nobility and whimsy for a result as majestic as it is amusing. The muted light, embroidered braid and dark ground call directly to mind the grand state portraits of centuries gone by.

This illustration belongs to our gallery of animals dressed up in the style of classical canvases, each beast cast as a figure from history. Hung in a living room, a study or a hallway, it draws the eye and prompts a grin through its mix of solemnity and absurdity. It lends unexpected presence to a wall and starts a conversation from the very first glance. It joins our Animal Portraits collection, peopled with creatures as dignified as they are unexpected.

• 16 formats available, from 13×18 cm up to a large A0
• Supplied as a print only or framed in black, white, light wood or dark wood
• Made to order on fine paper with deep, lasting inks
• Free shipping included

A gift with an offbeat spirit for a lover of classical art who also enjoys a straight-faced joke.