Indian Plaque Amulet Depicting Dog

Pricked-ear dog stands under a sloping loop, perfectly at ease.

This plaque amulet depicting a dog is Hindu, from Rajasthan, India. It is coin silver. In Hindu tradition the dog is associated with Bhairava, a fierce form of Shiva, and is often shown as his companion or vehicle. Roundel pendant with a thick, bent loop and a partial beaded edge. The dog in profile has a short body and a thin, raised tail. The ground is smooth and softly scuffed, and the metal is a cool grey. It is 0.5 inches long and 0.75 high.

Simple and sturdy, and never overdressed.