The hounds are set on rectangular bases and ebonised stands and are depicted crouching, with menacing expressions, 12cm wide.
They were purchased by John, 5th Earl of Exeter (1648-1700), whilst on the Grand Tour, and appear in the Burghley Inventory of 1688: ‘Drawing Roome, China and C. over ye Chimney and in the Chimney, 2 little brasse doggs on ebony pedistalls.’
