Price
Not sure of value, needs appraised.
Category
Fine Art
Medium
18k gold and turquoise
Distinguishing marks
It looks like the initials R S ( the S having a long tail that carries back under the R) are engraved on the bottom of its left front paw.
Condition
Excellent
Date Period
Unknown
Size and dimensions of this item
Approximately 3 1/2" × 3 1/2"
Weight
Approximately 4oz.
Long Description
This is a very unusual peice, l have confirmed it is made of 18k gold and is covered with turquoise in bezel mounts. All stones are blue/green except for a single red one on the belly.
There is what appears to be a delicate woven mask over its head like a muzzle. The eyes appear made of glass. It is hollow and you can see the braze work on some seams. I was told it might be related to the Tibetan Mastiffs used by Attila the Hun, or Ghingus Khan, because of them being reffered to as the masked war dogs, and the use of turquoise both blue and red being common of Tibbet. I would really appreciate any info on its history and value beyond the gold and turquoise, thank you.
History
Unknown, other than being told that the previous owner traveled the world, and had an extensive collection of fine art, antique jewellery, and items related to the history of places she had visited.
Price Paid (If known)
Was purchased at an estate auction in a box lot for 28.00.
For Sale?
Yes
Re: Masked Dog
Please leave a comment if you have any knowledge of its origin or anything similar to it you may have seen before, I have searched for hours with no luck at all.