Dog Supporting an Escutcheon, from the Top of a Balustrade or the Backrest of the Stadholder’s Chair in the Rolzaal in the Hof van Holland, The Hague 1511

This 16th century wooden sculpture by Joost Janszoon, titled "Dog Supporting an Escutcheon", is a captivating example of Early Netherlandish craftsmanship. The intricately carved dog, with its alert expression and detailed features, holds a shield firmly in its paws, likely symbolizing a coat of arms or heraldic crest. This sculpture was originally part of a larger decorative scheme, likely a balustrade or the backrest of a chair in the Hof van Holland, The Hague.