Symbolism, Dogs

Finger-ring in gold with an oblong bezel set with a boxwood carving of a pastoral scene with a cherub and a dog, under glass, bordered with diamonds. The reverse of the bezel has a charge mark.
Finger-ring in gold with an oblong bezel set with a boxwood carving of a pastoral scene with a cherub and a dog, under glass, bordered with diamonds. The reverse of the bezel has a charge mark. Courtesy British Museum.

The dog symbolises ‘fidelity’, always standing and waiting for its master as a sign of loyalty and lasting love.

The image of the dog is most prevalent in Neoclassical pieces and sometimes across the 19th century, so if you see a dog like the one pictured, know that you’re viewing something rather special.

Link > Read more on jewellery symbolism

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