GERMANY, late 17th century Games of dogs Sculpted group in veined alabaster probably part of a table top. H.26,5 x 17 x 16,5 cm This group delicately carved in alabaster shows four dogs of three different breeds in full play. The poodle is a breed of dog particularly appreciated by the German and English nobility in the 16th century. This dog, domesticated for hunting, especially waterfowl, and groomed as a lion, inspired sculptors and goldsmiths for tableware and andirons.

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