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{{Short description|French show rabbit breed}}
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The '''Argente rabbit''' is one of the oldest [[breed]]s of [[France|French]] show [[rabbits]]. The [[British Rabbit Council]] (BRC) recognises six varieties: Argente Bleu, Argente Brun, Argente Cr&egrave;me, Argente de Champagne, Argente Noir, and Argente St Hubert.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thebrc.org/standards.htm|title=Breed Standards|last=|first=|date=|website=The British Rabbit Council|publication-date=1 February 2017|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=20 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thebrc.org/Mono%20Breed%20Standards%20Book%20APRIL%202017%20small.pdf|title=Breed Standards 2016-2020|last=|first=|date=|website=The British Rabbit Council|format=PDF|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=20 January 2018}}</ref> The [[American Rabbit Breeders Association]] (ARBA) recognises the Champagne d'Argent and the Creme d'Argent.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.arba.net/breeds.htm|title=ARBA Recognized Breeds|last=|first=|date=|website=American Rabbit Breeders Association, Inc.|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=20 January 2018}}</ref> A rare variety, the Argente Clair,{{citation needed}} is not currently recognised by either the BRC or ARBA.
[[File:Jeuneslapinsargentés.jpg|thumb|right|{{center|Argenté rabbits<br>''(juvenile)''}}|300px]]
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The '''Argenté rabbit''' is one of the oldest [[breed]]s of [[France|French]] show [[rabbits]]. The [[British Rabbit Council]] (BRC) recognises six varieties: Argenté Bleu, Argenté Brun, Argenté Crème, Argenté de Champagne, Argenté Noir, and Argenté St Hubert.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thebrc.org/standards.htm|title=Breed Standards|website=The British Rabbit Council|publication-date=1 February 2017|access-date=20 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329051005/http://www.thebrc.org/standards.htm|archive-date=29 March 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=BRC>{{cite web|title=Breed Standards 2021-2025|url=https://thebritishrabbitcouncil.org/Breed%20Standards%20Book%202021.pdf|website=British Rabbit Council|accessdate=21 November 2022}}</ref> The [[American Rabbit Breeders Association]] (ARBA) recognises the Champagne d'Argent, the Crème d'Argent and the Argenté Brun.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.arba.net/breeds.htm|title=ARBA Recognized Breeds|website=American Rabbit Breeders Association, Inc.|access-date=21 November 2022}}</ref> A rare variety, the Argenté Clair,{{citation needed|date=February 2018}} is not currently recognised by either the BRC or ARBA.


At birth, Argentes are of a solid color, with adult colouring beginning to show as early as six weeks and as late as four months of age. Argente rabbits are small and neat with well-developed hind quarters and slightly arched backs. Extremes of cobbiness or raciness are undesirable in Argentes being shown. With broad heads and straight front legs, Argentes are short and fine in bone. Due to their good nature, they are known as excellent [[pet]]s.
The names of the Argenté breeds (''Brun, Noir, etc.)'' refer not to the top-colour (which is always silver), but rather to the lower portions of the hair shaft. At birth, Argentés are of a solid color, with adult colouring beginning to show as early as six weeks and as late as four months of age. Argenté rabbits are small and neat with well-developed hind quarters and slightly arched backs. Strong traits of being cobby or racy are undesirable in Argentés. With broad heads and straight front legs, Argentés are short and fine in bone. Due to their good nature, they are known as excellent [[pet]]s.


== Argente Bleu==
==Argenté Bleu==
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
Argente Bleus<ref>[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N2-Argente%20Bleu.pdf Argente Bleu BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153837/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N2-Argente%20Bleu.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref> have erect ears that are short, rounded, and proportionate in breadth. Bleus weigh approximately {{Convert|2.72|kg|lb}} and their coats, which lie close to their bodies, are very dense, glossy, and silky.
The Argenté Bleu<ref name=BRC/> has erect ears that are short, rounded, and proportionate in breadth. Bleus weigh approximately {{Convert|2.72|kg|lb}} and their coats, which lie close to their bodies, are very dense, glossy, and silky.


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The undercolour of the Argenté Bleu is lavender blue. In shows, it is desirable for the colour to be even and moderately interspersed with longer dark blue [[hairs]] to give a distinct bluish effect when viewed from a distance. [[Eyes]] are bold and blue, and toenails are coloured.
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In rabbit shows, the following are considered faults in the Argente Bleu: dark or too long [[ears]], too dark [[Snout|muzzle]], and/or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow [[tint]] (especially around the [[neck]] and [[cheeks]]), a large [[paunch]], a bony or angular frame, or [[fur]] that is too harsh, thin, wooly, or short is frowned upon. Dewlaps in either sex are considered a serious fault. White-topped or very dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.


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In rabbit shows, the following are considered faults in the Argenté Bleu: dark or too long [[ear]]s, too dark [[Snout|muzzle]], and/or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow [[tint]] (especially around the [[neck]] and [[cheeks]]), a large [[Abdominal obesity|paunch]], a bony or angular frame, or [[fur]] that is too harsh, thin, wooly, or short is frowned upon. Dewlaps in either sex are considered a serious fault. White-topped or very dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.
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The undercolour of the Argente Bleu is lavender blue. In shows, it is desirable for the colour to be even and moderately interspersed with longer dark blue [[hairs]] to give a distinct bluish effect when viewed from a distance. [[Eyes]] are bold and blue, and toenails are coloured.


== Argente Brun==
==Argenté Brun==
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
Argente Bruns<ref>[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N3-Argente%20Brun.pdf Argente Brun BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153842/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N3-Argente%20Brun.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref>are very similar to Argente Bleus, with the exception of color. Argente Bruns have erect ears that are short, rounded, and proportionate in breadth. Bruns weigh approximately {{Convert|2.72|kg|lb}} and their coats, which lie close to their bodies, are very dense, glossy, and silky.
The Argenté Brun is recognised by the BRC ["Argente Brun (UK)"] and by ARBA ["Argente Brun (US)"]. Their differences are noted below.


The Argenté Brun (UK)<ref name=BRC/> weighs approximately {{convert|6|lb|kg}}. The BRC standard states: "Undercolour as deep brown as possible, body colour brownish-white, the whole evenly and moderately interspersed with longer dark brown hairs to give a distinct brownish effect when viewed from a distance." The coat is described as "Very dense, glossy, silky and lying close to the body. Desired length between {{convert|1.9|-|2.54|cm|in|order=flip}}." The Argente Brun (UK) originated in England.<ref name="Whitman">{{cite book|last=Whitman|first=Bob D.|title=Domestic Rabbits & Their Histories: Breeds of the World|date=October 2004|publisher=Leathers Publishing|location=Leawood, KS|isbn=978-1585972753|page=68}}</ref>
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In rabbit shows, the following are considered faults in the Argente Brun: dark or too long [[ears]], too dark [[Snout|muzzle]], and/or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow [[tint]] (especially around the [[neck]] and [[cheeks]]), a large [[paunch]], a bony or angular frame, or [[fur]] that is too harsh, thin, wooly, or short is frowned upon. Dewlaps in either sex are considered a serious fault. White-topped or very dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.


The Argenté Brun (US)<ref name="ARBA Standard">{{cite book|title=ARBA Standard of Perfection 2021-2025|year=2021|publisher=American Rabbit Breeders Association|asin=B08QG6242B}}</ref> may be a maximum of {{convert|10.5|lb|kg}}. The ARBA standard states: "Surface color is to be an even silvered or frosted chocolate brown throughout. While evenness is stressed, slightly darker muzzle butterfly, ears and feet are desirable. Longer, dark brown guard hairs are to be evenly interspersed over the entire pelt. The under color is to be a rich chocolate ideally carried right to the skin." The Argente Brun (US) originated in Canada.<ref name="ArgBrun Origin Johnson">{{cite web|last=Johnson|first=Samantha|title=ARBA Recognizes 49th Rabbit Breed: The Argente Brun|url=https://www.petcha.com/arba-recognizes-49th-rabbit-breed-the-argente-brun/|website=Petcha.com|access-date=16 February 2018}}</ref>
For Argente Bruns, a brown undertone, as deep as possible, is desired. Body colour should be brownish white, evenly and moderately interspersed with longer dark brown hairs to give a distinct brownish effect when viewed from a distance. Eyes are bold and brown, and toenails are coloured.


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==Argenté Clair==
== Argente Cr&egrave;me <nowiki>[UK]</nowiki> ==
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
The breed recognized by the BRC as the ''Argente Cr&egrave;me''<ref name="BRC Standard">[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf Argente de Champagne - BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153856/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref> is similar to the breed that is recognized by ARBA as the ''Creme d'Argent''<ref name="Whitman">{{cite book|last1=Whitman|first1=Bob D.|title=Domestic Rabbits & Their Histories: Breeds of the World|date=October 2004|publisher=Leathers Publishing|location=Leawood KS|isbn=978-1585972753|page=68}}</ref>
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The Argenté Clair, called ''Light Groot Silver'' in Germany, is a rare breed that is not currently recognised by the BRC or ARBA.{{citation needed|date=February 2018}} It is similar in appearance to the Champagne d'Argent, but heavily silvered and with recessive dilute blue as an undercoat (instead of black).{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}


==Argenté Crème (UK)==
Argente Cr&egrave;mes weigh approximately {{Convert|2.26|kg|lb}} and, like the Bleus and Bruns, their coats are very dense, glossy, silky and lie close to the body.<ref>[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N4-Argente%20Creme.pdf Argente Cr&egrave;me BRC Rabbit Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153848/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N4-Argente%20Creme.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref>
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
The breed that is recognised by the BRC as the ''Argenté Crème''<ref name=BRC/> is similar to the breed that is recognised by ARBA as the ''Crème d'Argent''<ref name="Whitman"/>


Argente Cr&egrave;mes have an orange undercolour that go down to the skin and their outer color is a silver giving them a creamy complection. In shows, it is desirable for the whole body to be evenly and moderately interspersed with longer orange hairs to give a distinct creamy effect when viewed from a distance. A white underbelly is permissible but a coloured underbelly is encouraged. Their eyes are bold and dark brown, and their toenails should be horn coloured.
The Argenté Crème (much smaller than the Crème d'Argent) weighs approximately {{Convert|2.3|kg|lb}} and, like the Bleus and Bruns, has a very dense, glossy, silky coat that lies close to the body. Argenté Crèmes have an orange undercolour that go down to the skin and their outer color is a silver giving them a creamy complexion. In shows, it is desirable for the whole body to be evenly and moderately interspersed with longer orange hairs to give a distinct creamy effect when viewed from a distance. A white underbelly is permissible but a coloured underbelly is encouraged. Their eyes are bold and dark brown, and their toenails should be horn coloured. In shows, Crèmes follow the same guidelines for faults as Bleus and Bruns with the addition of: light soiling of the feet, ears and genital organs, bare pads, fur slightly soiled or matted, and/or long toe nails.


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==Argenté de Champagne (UK)==
In shows, Cr&egrave;mes follow the same guidelines for faults as Bleus and Bruns with the addition of: light soiling of the feet, ears and genital organs, bare pads, fur slightly soiled or matted, and/or long toe nails.
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
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[[File:Lapin argenté.jpg|thumb|right|An Argenté de Champagne rabbit]]
The breed that is recognised by the BRC as the ''Argenté de Champagne''<ref name=BRC/> is similar to the breed that is recognised by ARBA as the ''Champagne d'Argent.''<ref name="Whitman"/>


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The Argenté de Champagne weighs {{convert|4.1|-|5.4|kg|lb}}. Its undercolour is described as dark slate blue, with a bluish white body. It is preferred that they have long jet black hairs interspersed in their fur to create a silvery tone when viewed from a distance. It can also be all black.
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== Argente de Champagne <nowiki>[UK]</nowiki> ==
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[[File:Lapin argenté.jpg|thumb|right|An Argente de Champagne rabbit]]
The breed that is recognized by the BRC as the ''Argente de Champagne''<ref name="BRC Standard">[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf Argente de Champagne - BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153856/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref> is similar to the breed recognized by ARBA as the ''Champagne d'Argent.''<ref name="Whitman">{{cite book|last1=Whitman|first1=Bob D.|title=Domestic Rabbits & Their Histories: Breeds of the World|date=October 2004|publisher=Leathers Publishing|location=Leawood KS|isbn=978-1585972753|page=68}}</ref>


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In show judging, the following are considered faults: dark ears, creamy or yellow tint, especially noticeable around the neck and cheeks. A large paunch, or a bony or angular frame are discouraged. Fur should not be harsh, thin, wooly or too short. Dewlaps in either sex are a serious fault. White topped or too dark exhibits are discouraged. White toe-nails are a minor fault.
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Argente de Champagnes weigh approximately {{Convert|3.62|kg|lb}}.<ref name="BRC Standard" /> Their undercolour is described as dark slate blue, with a bluish white body. They are preferred to have long jet black hairs interspersed in their fur to create a silvery tone when viewed from a distance. They can also be all black.


⚫
The Argenté de Champagne is one of the oldest known rabbit breeds. At that time known as the ''French Silver'' for its silvery coat, it was once prized for its pelt in spite of the fact that it was a common breed. Kits are born pure black and begin turning silver gray at about 3 weeks. By 6 months old they are typically a shade of silver grey.
⚫
In show judging, the following are considered faults: dark ears, creamy or yellow tint, especially noticeable around the neck and cheeks. A large paunch, or a bony or angular frame are discouraged. Fur should not be harsh, thin, wooly or too short. Dewlaps in either sex are a serious fault. White topped or too dark exhibits are discouraged. White toe-nails are a minor fault.


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==Argenté Noir==
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The Argente de Champagne is one of the oldest known rabbit breeds. At that time known as the ''French Silver'' for its silvery coat, it was once prized for its pelt in spite of the fact that it was a common breed. Kits are born pure black and begin turning silver gray at about 3 weeks. By 6 months old they are typically a shade of silver grey.
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
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The Argenté Noir<ref name=BRC/> weighs approximately {{Convert|2.72|kg|lb}}. Its coat is grayish white, with deep slate blue undertones to create a silvery effect from a distance. The eyes are a distinctive bold brown. In show judging, the following are considered faults: dark or too long ears, too dark muzzle, or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow tint is discouraged, most noticeably around the neck and cheeks. A large paunch or bony or angular frame are discouraged. Fur should not be harsh, thin, wooly or too short. Dewlaps in either sex are a serious fault. White topped or too dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.


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==Argenté St Hubert==
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== Argente Noir ==
[[image:Lapine argentée de Saint-Hubert.jpg|thumb|right|Argenté Saint Hubert]]
Argente Noirs weigh around {{Convert|2.72|kg|lb}}.<ref>[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N6-Argente%20Noir.pdf Argente Noir BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153900/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N6-Argente%20Noir.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref> Their coats are grayish white, with deep slate blue undertones to create a silvery effect from a distance. Their eyes are a distinctive bold brown. In show judging the following are considered faults: dark or too long ears, too dark muzzle, or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow tint is discouraged, most noticeably around the neck and cheeks. A large paunch or bony or angular frame are discouraged. Fur should not be harsh, thin, wooly or too short. Dewlaps in either sex are a serious fault. White topped or too dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
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The Argenté St Hubert<ref name=BRC/> weighs approximately {{convert|2.72|kg|lb}}. Its under colour is dark blue at the base with an orange intermediate band with narrow top chestnut band. Body colour is creamy white interspersed with black guard hairs to give a creamy chestnut shade.


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==Champagne d'Argent (US)==
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== Argente St Hubert==
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
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Argent St Hubert weigh around {{Convert|2.72|kg|lb}}.<ref>[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N42-Argente%20St%20Hubert.pdf Argente St Hubert BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153906/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N42-Argente%20St%20Hubert.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref> Their under colour is dark blue at the base with an orange intermediate band with narrow top chestnut band. Body colour is creamy white interspersed with black guard hairs to give a creamy chestnut shade.
The breed that is recognised by ARBA as the ''Champagne d'Argent''<ref name="Whitman"/> is similar to the breed that is recognised by the BRC as the ''Argenté de Champagne.''<ref name=BRC/>


The Champagne d'Argent weighs {{convert|3.6|-|5.0|kg|lb}}. Color is described thus: "The surface color should be as near the color of skimmed milk, old silver (white/light gray with a slight dark grey tinge), as is possible. Fur over entire body should carry a liberal sprinkling of longer black guard hairs. It was to have a rich sheen and surface color that was uniform over the usable pelt, with no tinge of brassiness or foreign color."<ref>{{cite web|last1=Kloos|first1=Wes|title=History and Description of the Champagne D'Argent|url=https://champagnedargent.weebly.com/breed-description--history.html|website=Champagne D'Argent [Rabbit] Federation|access-date=2 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202071529/https://champagnedargent.weebly.com/breed-description--history.html|archive-date=2 February 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>
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== Champagne d'Argent <nowiki>[US]</nowiki> ==
The breed that is recognized by ARBA as the ''Champagne d'Argent''<ref name="Whitman">{{cite book|last1=Whitman|first1=Bob D.|title=Domestic Rabbits & Their Histories: Breeds of the World|date=October 2004|publisher=Leathers Publishing|location=Leawood KS|isbn=978-1585972753|page=68}}</ref> is similar to the breed recognized by the BRC as the ''Argente de Champagne.''<ref name="BRC Standard">[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf Argente de Champagne - BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153856/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref>


==Crème d'Argent (US)==
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The Champagne d'Argent (much larger than the Argente de Champagne) weighs {{Convert|8|-|11|lb|kg}}. Its coat is "creamy-white in color with an orange cast carried throughout the fur of the body. The undercoat is bright orange and this color carries to the skin. The entire coat is interspersed with orange guard hairs."<ref name="Creme d'Argent description">{{cite web|title=History of the Creme D'Argent|url=https://cremedargent.weebly.com/breed-history.html|website=Creme D'Argent Rabbit Federation|accessdate=2 February 2018}}</ref>
<!--COMMENT Please do not change the above section name: [[List of rabbit breeds]] links here (February 2018)-->
The breed that is recognised by ARBA as the ''Crème d'Argent''<ref name="Whitman"/> is similar to the breed that is recognised by the BRC as the ''Argenté Crème.''<ref name=BRC/>


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The Crème d'Argent (much larger than the Argenté Crème) weighs {{convert|3.6|-|5.0|kg|lb}}. Its coat is "creamy-white in color with an orange cast carried throughout the fur of the body. The undercoat is bright orange and this color carries to the skin. The entire coat is interspersed with orange guard hairs."<ref name="Creme d'Argent description">{{cite web|title=History of the Creme D'Argent|url=https://cremedargent.weebly.com/breed-history.html|website=Creme D'Argent Rabbit Federation|access-date=21 November 2022}}</ref>
== Creme d'Argent <nowiki>[US]</nowiki> ==
The breed that is recognized by ARBA as the ''Creme d'Argent''<ref name="Whitman">{{cite book|last1=Whitman|first1=Bob D.|title=Domestic Rabbits & Their Histories: Breeds of the World|date=October 2004|publisher=Leathers Publishing|location=Leawood KS|isbn=978-1585972753|page=68}}</ref> is similar to the breed that is recognized by the BRC as the ''Argente Cr&egrave;me.''<ref name="BRC Standard">[http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf Argente de Champagne - BRC Breed Standard] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425153856/http://www.thebrc.org/standards/N5-Argente%20de%20Champagne.pdf |date=April 25, 2012 }}</ref>


The Creme d'Argent originated in France in the mid- to late-nineteenth century, where they were quite popular for their unusual fur. In the 1920s and 30's, Creme d'Argents were exported to the United States from France, Germany and England. (The first rabbits of the breed were brought to this country in 1924 or shortly before.) Although the breed struggled at first, their lovely coloration appealed to American fanciers.
The Crème d'Argent's origins are in France in the mid- to late-nineteenth century, where its unusual fur was quite popular. In the 1920s and 1930s, some specimens were imported to the United States from France, Germany and England. (The first rabbits of the breed were brought to the US in 1924 or shortly before.) Although the breed struggled at first, its lovely coloration appealed to American fanciers.<ref name="Creme d'Argent description"/>


Today, the Creme d'Argent is a rare breed. The [[American Livestock Breeds Conservancy]], an organization devoted to breed preservation, lists the Creme d'Argent on its "Watch" list. At the time of this writing, fewer than 100 Creme d'Argents are registered every year in the United States. Only 43 animals were shown at the 2006 ARBA National Convention & Show.
Today, the Crème d'Argent is a rare breed. The [[American Livestock Breeds Conservancy]], an organization devoted to breed preservation, lists the Crème d'Argent on its "Watch" list. At the time of this writing, fewer than 100 Crème d'Argents are being registered each year in the United States. Only 43 specimens were shown at the 2006 ARBA National Convention & Show.<ref name="Creme d'Argent description"/>

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== Argente Clair==
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Argent Clair, called Light Groot Silver in Germany, is a rarely seen Argente and not currently recognised by the [[British Rabbit Council|BRC]] or [[American Rabbit Breeders Association|ARBA]]. They are much like Champagne d'Argents but with recessive dilute blue as an undercoat instead of black and are heavily silvered.{{citation needed}}


==See also==
==See also==
Line 63: Line 73:
==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}



{{DEFAULTSORT:Argente Rabbit}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Argente Rabbit}}

Latest revision as of 16:09, 1 January 2024

Argenté rabbits
(juvenile)

The Argenté rabbit is one of the oldest breeds of French show rabbits. The British Rabbit Council (BRC) recognises six varieties: Argenté Bleu, Argenté Brun, Argenté Crème, Argenté de Champagne, Argenté Noir, and Argenté St Hubert.[1][2] The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recognises the Champagne d'Argent, the Crème d'Argent and the Argenté Brun.[3] A rare variety, the Argenté Clair,[citation needed] is not currently recognised by either the BRC or ARBA.

The names of the Argenté breeds (Brun, Noir, etc.) refer not to the top-colour (which is always silver), but rather to the lower portions of the hair shaft. At birth, Argentés are of a solid color, with adult colouring beginning to show as early as six weeks and as late as four months of age. Argenté rabbits are small and neat with well-developed hind quarters and slightly arched backs. Strong traits of being cobby or racy are undesirable in Argentés. With broad heads and straight front legs, Argentés are short and fine in bone. Due to their good nature, they are known as excellent pets.

Argenté Bleu

[edit]

The Argenté Bleu[2] has erect ears that are short, rounded, and proportionate in breadth. Bleus weigh approximately 2.72 kilograms (6.0 lb) and their coats, which lie close to their bodies, are very dense, glossy, and silky.

The undercolour of the Argenté Bleu is lavender blue. In shows, it is desirable for the colour to be even and moderately interspersed with longer dark blue hairs to give a distinct bluish effect when viewed from a distance. Eyes are bold and blue, and toenails are coloured.

In rabbit shows, the following are considered faults in the Argenté Bleu: dark or too long ears, too dark muzzle, and/or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow tint (especially around the neck and cheeks), a large paunch, a bony or angular frame, or fur that is too harsh, thin, wooly, or short is frowned upon. Dewlaps in either sex are considered a serious fault. White-topped or very dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.

Argenté Brun

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The Argenté Brun is recognised by the BRC ["Argente Brun (UK)"] and by ARBA ["Argente Brun (US)"]. Their differences are noted below.

The Argenté Brun (UK)[2] weighs approximately 6 pounds (2.7 kg). The BRC standard states: "Undercolour as deep brown as possible, body colour brownish-white, the whole evenly and moderately interspersed with longer dark brown hairs to give a distinct brownish effect when viewed from a distance." The coat is described as "Very dense, glossy, silky and lying close to the body. Desired length between 0.75–1.00 inch (1.9–2.54 cm)." The Argente Brun (UK) originated in England.[4]

The Argenté Brun (US)[5] may be a maximum of 10.5 pounds (4.8 kg). The ARBA standard states: "Surface color is to be an even silvered or frosted chocolate brown throughout. While evenness is stressed, slightly darker muzzle butterfly, ears and feet are desirable. Longer, dark brown guard hairs are to be evenly interspersed over the entire pelt. The under color is to be a rich chocolate ideally carried right to the skin." The Argente Brun (US) originated in Canada.[6]

Argenté Clair

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The Argenté Clair, called Light Groot Silver in Germany, is a rare breed that is not currently recognised by the BRC or ARBA.[citation needed] It is similar in appearance to the Champagne d'Argent, but heavily silvered and with recessive dilute blue as an undercoat (instead of black).[citation needed]

Argenté Crème (UK)

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The breed that is recognised by the BRC as the Argenté Crème[2] is similar to the breed that is recognised by ARBA as the Crème d'Argent[4]

The Argenté Crème (much smaller than the Crème d'Argent) weighs approximately 2.3 kilograms (5.1 lb) and, like the Bleus and Bruns, has a very dense, glossy, silky coat that lies close to the body. Argenté Crèmes have an orange undercolour that go down to the skin and their outer color is a silver giving them a creamy complexion. In shows, it is desirable for the whole body to be evenly and moderately interspersed with longer orange hairs to give a distinct creamy effect when viewed from a distance. A white underbelly is permissible but a coloured underbelly is encouraged. Their eyes are bold and dark brown, and their toenails should be horn coloured. In shows, Crèmes follow the same guidelines for faults as Bleus and Bruns with the addition of: light soiling of the feet, ears and genital organs, bare pads, fur slightly soiled or matted, and/or long toe nails.

Argenté de Champagne (UK)

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An Argenté de Champagne rabbit

The breed that is recognised by the BRC as the Argenté de Champagne[2] is similar to the breed that is recognised by ARBA as the Champagne d'Argent.[4]

The Argenté de Champagne weighs 4.1–5.4 kilograms (9.0–11.9 lb). Its undercolour is described as dark slate blue, with a bluish white body. It is preferred that they have long jet black hairs interspersed in their fur to create a silvery tone when viewed from a distance. It can also be all black.

In show judging, the following are considered faults: dark ears, creamy or yellow tint, especially noticeable around the neck and cheeks. A large paunch, or a bony or angular frame are discouraged. Fur should not be harsh, thin, wooly or too short. Dewlaps in either sex are a serious fault. White topped or too dark exhibits are discouraged. White toe-nails are a minor fault.

The Argenté de Champagne is one of the oldest known rabbit breeds. At that time known as the French Silver for its silvery coat, it was once prized for its pelt in spite of the fact that it was a common breed. Kits are born pure black and begin turning silver gray at about 3 weeks. By 6 months old they are typically a shade of silver grey.

Argenté Noir

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The Argenté Noir[2] weighs approximately 2.72 kilograms (6.0 lb). Its coat is grayish white, with deep slate blue undertones to create a silvery effect from a distance. The eyes are a distinctive bold brown. In show judging, the following are considered faults: dark or too long ears, too dark muzzle, or washy undercolour. Creamy or yellow tint is discouraged, most noticeably around the neck and cheeks. A large paunch or bony or angular frame are discouraged. Fur should not be harsh, thin, wooly or too short. Dewlaps in either sex are a serious fault. White topped or too dark exhibits are discouraged. White toenails are a minor fault.

Argenté St Hubert

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Argenté Saint Hubert

The Argenté St Hubert[2] weighs approximately 2.72 kilograms (6.0 lb). Its under colour is dark blue at the base with an orange intermediate band with narrow top chestnut band. Body colour is creamy white interspersed with black guard hairs to give a creamy chestnut shade.

Champagne d'Argent (US)

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The breed that is recognised by ARBA as the Champagne d'Argent[4] is similar to the breed that is recognised by the BRC as the Argenté de Champagne.[2]

The Champagne d'Argent weighs 3.6–5.0 kilograms (7.9–11.0 lb). Color is described thus: "The surface color should be as near the color of skimmed milk, old silver (white/light gray with a slight dark grey tinge), as is possible. Fur over entire body should carry a liberal sprinkling of longer black guard hairs. It was to have a rich sheen and surface color that was uniform over the usable pelt, with no tinge of brassiness or foreign color."[7]

Crème d'Argent (US)

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The breed that is recognised by ARBA as the Crème d'Argent[4] is similar to the breed that is recognised by the BRC as the Argenté Crème.[2]

The Crème d'Argent (much larger than the Argenté Crème) weighs 3.6–5.0 kilograms (7.9–11.0 lb). Its coat is "creamy-white in color with an orange cast carried throughout the fur of the body. The undercoat is bright orange and this color carries to the skin. The entire coat is interspersed with orange guard hairs."[8]

The Crème d'Argent's origins are in France in the mid- to late-nineteenth century, where its unusual fur was quite popular. In the 1920s and 1930s, some specimens were imported to the United States from France, Germany and England. (The first rabbits of the breed were brought to the US in 1924 or shortly before.) Although the breed struggled at first, its lovely coloration appealed to American fanciers.[8]

Today, the Crème d'Argent is a rare breed. The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, an organization devoted to breed preservation, lists the Crème d'Argent on its "Watch" list. At the time of this writing, fewer than 100 Crème d'Argents are being registered each year in the United States. Only 43 specimens were shown at the 2006 ARBA National Convention & Show.[8]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Breed Standards". The British Rabbit Council. 1 February 2017. Archived from the original on 29 March 2013. Retrieved 20 January 2018.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Breed Standards 2021-2025" (PDF). British Rabbit Council. Retrieved 21 November 2022.
  3. ^ "ARBA Recognized Breeds". American Rabbit Breeders Association, Inc. Retrieved 21 November 2022.
  4. ^ a b c d e Whitman, Bob D. (October 2004). Domestic Rabbits & Their Histories: Breeds of the World. Leawood, KS: Leathers Publishing. p. 68. ISBN 978-1585972753.
  5. ^ ARBA Standard of Perfection 2021-2025. American Rabbit Breeders Association. 2021. ASIN B08QG6242B.
  6. ^ Johnson, Samantha. "ARBA Recognizes 49th Rabbit Breed: The Argente Brun". Petcha.com. Retrieved 16 February 2018.
  7. ^ Kloos, Wes. "History and Description of the Champagne D'Argent". Champagne D'Argent [Rabbit] Federation. Archived from the original on 2 February 2018. Retrieved 2 February 2018.
  8. ^ a b c "History of the Creme D'Argent". Creme D'Argent Rabbit Federation. Retrieved 21 November 2022.
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