Peter Barrett (B. 1935) "Black & Tan Coonhound / American Foxhound" Signed lower left. Watercolor on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This artwork originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day of Issue Maximum Card for the U.S. 20c Coonhound and Foxhound stamp issued September 7, 1984. As American as the deep South, the Black and Tan Coonhound is one of the few purebred dogs which originated in America. This hound was developed in the South from the bloodlines of the American Foxhound, the Virginia Foxhound, and the Bloodhound. As a result of the careful work of early breeders, the Black and Tan Coonhound was standardized as an alert and expert tracker. The Black and Tan Coonhound retains the classic hound coat of black and tan, pendulous ears and a long curving tail, but has lost the traditional wrinkles of his ancestors. Known as one of the best tracking dogs in the world, this beloved American canine is a devoted companion and loyal friend. Another beloved tracking dog of American origin is the American Foxhound. A cousin of the English Foxhound, this American dog may be the descendant of George Washington's crossbreeds of English hounds and long-eared French staghounds. Today, the American Foxhound is known for its especially keen nose and amazing speed. Image Size: 8.25 x 11.5 in. Overall Size: 15 x 17.25 in. Unframed. (B99009)