Blind Old Wooden Cutout Folk Art Dog 19th century engraved book including at the Art Institute

including at the Art Institute of Chicago

I think he's really fantastic and believe I'd never tire of looking at him

where they functioned as match holders

1960s or so I would guess

and definitely done in pen and ink

Blind Old Wooden Cutout Folk Art Dog 19th century engraved book including at the Art InstituteWhat a strange one! I have to think perhaps abandoned before completion, or made by someone who had an unusual perspective on where a dogs eye might go! Whatever the case, I really love the rather surrealistic result. 12 inches tall, 3 4" thick, painted essentially the same on both sides, and in perfectly aged condition, with assorted scuffs and scrapes all to the good. And with a handy eye hook at top for hanging.