Swiss Brienz Carved Wood Dog’s Head Inkwell
| Categories | Figural - Animals & Living Creatures |
| Type | dog |
| Material | Wood |
| Markings | Unmarked |
| Manufacturer | Black Forest |
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Date or Era | circa 1880 |
| Measuring | 4 ¾” long; 3 ⅞” high |
A late-19th-century Swiss Brienz (“Black Forest”) carved linden wood inkwell modeled as the head of a hunting dog, displaying classic features of a spaniel or long-haired setter. The carving exhibits exceptional character and depth, with finely channeled fur texture, feathered droop ears, prominent brow definition, and expressive inset glass eyes with amber irises and black pupils.
- Origin & Date: Brienz, Switzerland, circa 1880.
- Construction & Mechanics: The hinged upper skull opens on a brass five-knuckle hinge, concealed along the natural contours of the fur.
- Interior: Features a clear glass removable insert.
- Finish & Patina: Warm, rich dark brown patinated surface with subtle highlights across the muzzle, cheeks, and ear ridges, highlighting the tool work of the woodcarver.
Sold for $275 in August 2026
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