Figurine of a Female Dog nursing 5 Pups

Carved and delicately painted, this limestone figurine showcases a mother dog nursing her five pups. Upon a vibrant yellow backdrop, the mother dog is collared and her lead/leash cascades to the floor in a decorative spiral. Her teets are depicted 2-dimensional against the raised limestone 3-dimensional effect of the pups and mother herself. Her face is designed with elongated black lines, yellow and black strips on the years, and red ochre detailing. The pups coat pattern also reflects their mothers, with black spots, and yellowish pigment remaining on their faces.

The piece measures at 18.5 cm and based upon its style, it is believed to date from the Middle Kingdom, c. 2035-1680 B.C.

The piece was acquired by Musée du Louvre via Chanlaire, in 1917, and is currently on display within Sully, [AE] Room 332 – “Breeding, hunting and fishing” gallery.

Summary:

Painted limestone figure of a nursing dog with 5 pups

Middle Kingdom, c. 2035-1680 B.C.

Acquired by Musée du Louvre via Chanlaire, in 1917, and is currently on display within Sully, [AE] Room 332 – “Breeding, hunting and fishing” gallery. E 11557