Written by Valerie Brideau
"We have stated repeatedly how regrettable it is that there are no publications focusing on indigenous Belgian breeds. While this should be a major responsibility for our Specialty Clubs, they have never had the required financial means.” A somewhat acidy observation written by F.E. Verbanck, 1965.
Felix Verbanck goes on to say: "In England, a publishing house has published more than thirty small books about popular breeds. One such volume is devoted to the Griffon Bruxellois, well known in English speaking countries, but out of favour in its country of origin. This book has provided us with documentation hitherto lost to us. Miss Marjorie Cousens, one of the most ardent supporters of the breed is its author and has created such a detailed study of the breed that a companion volume for breeders has followed it."
This book, The History of the Griffon Bruxellois, Griffon Belge & Petit Brabancon, is the result of our setting to work to repair or fill this gap. It includes some of the most important documentation on the breed from the period of its foundation in Belgium to the present day. The main source of information is the weekly magazine "Chasse et Pêche” which was the official publication of the Société Royale Saint-Hubert and its affiliated clubs.
The book is also richly illustrated with paintings, photos and prints, most likely new to many readers. The slim volume also highlights and pays hommage to Louis Vander Snickt who was unquestionably the father or godfather of the Griffon Bruxellois and of its two brothers, the Griffon Belge and the Petit Brabançon. Jean-Marie Vanbutsele, Brakel, December 2011
For information on how to purchase a copy of the English edition, please email.
To purchase the French edition online, please click here
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Early 2011, subsequent to corresponding with Mr. Vanbutsele, a highly regarded specialist of Belgian breeds, about his archived documents on the foundations of the Griffon* in its country of origin, I was thrilled to be requested to work with him on the English translation of a manuscript that he was preparing on the Breed.
What Mr. Vanbutsele has brought together in this wonderful little book is a treasure trove of primary documents from those directly involved in creating and developing the Breed. Following the breed from its inception to present day, this seminal text introduces us to its creators, presents the formation of the the Standards, the Club(s) involved, its reception by the general public and in the dog show community in Belgium, Europe, and the UK. It also includes many written critiques from the earliest shows in Belgium.
Through the research and dedication of Jean-Marie Vanbutsele, breeders, judges, dedicated fanciers, dog historians and toy breed specialists, have at their hands the opportunity to read the words of some of the leading voices involved in the creation of this splendid little breed - the Connoisseur's Dog - the Griffon in its many delightful varieties. Well illustrated with many never-before-seen etchings, paintings & illustrations by Belgian and leading European artists, this slim volume is a MUST HAVE for your collection.
We have kept the price of the book as low as possible so that it will be read by a wide audience. It is $20.00 or 15EURO (postage and handling not included) and we shall have Paypal available as well as other methods of payment. As this is a self-published book, we are presently reserving copies to ensure that there is enough interest for large volume distribution. Clubs wishing to order the book in volume will receive a 10% discount. Please support this great little book and further research on the Breed. Click the links below for further information.
*Please note: The Brussels Griffon, as it is known in Canada and the USA, is a variety of dog called a Griffon. It is NOT a Brussels and it is NOT a Terrier. Brussels is the name of a European city NOT a breed of dog.
