A thin sheets of gilt silver was pounded over a carving of a dog, a technique known by the French word, repousser. This roundel could have been used as a decoration for any sort of items ranging from a chest to the ends of the arms of a chair. Perhaps they were placed on chariots like the logos that decorate the uniforms of contemporary sport teams. Regardless of their original function, we can still appreciate the inherent beauty of their craftsmanship. The collared dog, seen in profile, is finely carved in relief. Expert attention is paid to the texture of his fur. With his open, snarling mouth, ferocious fangs exposed, and tongue lapping in anticipation, the fierceness of this beast is overwhelming. There is a naturalistic quality of this roundel that transcends time. Once this work existed only to embellish another functional item, today its beauty alone is self- sufficient. - (FZ.366)

Antiquities
Ancient Unknown