Paperweight 1848 - 1856

This is a ceramic paperweight made by Charles Cartlidge and Company in the mid-19th century, featuring a reclining dog atop a simple base. Here, the dog, rendered in stark white, adopts the ancient pose of a guardian. I'm reminded of the Anubis jackals of ancient Egypt or even the Cerberus guarding the gates to the underworld. This motif goes even further back; as a symbol, it echoes throughout time and space, taking root in different cultures. These depictions often reflect our primal need for protection, and our deep bond with animals, engaging us on a subconscious level. Even in this everyday object, the archetypal guardian continues to watch. The symbol persists, transformed yet recognizable, speaking to our shared, collective anxieties and comforts.