Finely hand-carved from a single block of dense, light-colored hardwood—likely maple or birch—and depicted seated on an integral base. The carving is distinguished by its strongly folk-rendered face, with softly modeled muzzle, shallow almond-shaped eyes, and subtle asymmetry that imparts a gentle, expressive character emblematic of American vernacular animal sculpture. The body is handled with restrained anatomical understanding, while the head is deliberately simplified, emphasizing sentiment and presence over literal realism in a manner typical of late Victorian domestic folk art. Retains its original, untouched surface with warm, naturally aged patina, and visible hand-tool marks to the underside, confirming one-piece construction and period craftsmanship. A particularly honest and appealing example of late 19th-century American folk carving.
Height 7 3/4 in., length 6 1/4 in.