Black Forest Carved Tobacco Jar in the Form of a Dog’s Head

A carved Black Forest tobacco jar, depicting the head of a dog, a terrier or similar breed. The naturalistic modelling captures the dog’s intelligent and alert expression, with incised fur and subtle tonal variation achieved through a deep hand-polished stain. The lid is integrated into the head, preserving the sculptural integrity of the form. Presumed to have been executed in linden wood, also known as basswood or limewood—favoured by Black Forest carvers for its fine, even grain and capacity for intricate detail—this piece exemplifies the continuation of the Black Forest carving tradition into the 20th century, when such animal-form tobacco jars were cherished both as practical objects and as expressions of craftsmanship and character.