The Duleek Dog Necklace
This zoomorphic dog is from the ancient monastic village of Duleek (pronounced duh-leek), dating back to the 7th century CE, County Meath, Ireland. The front of the cross depicts the Crucifixion of Christ and other images from the New Testament. The image of the curving dog is appears in a panel, along with the story of Mary, which is some of the most beautiful knot work and key pattern designs found on any of the Great Irish High Crosses. The dog is a symbol of loyalty, and an icon of the Dalriada of Ulster, the Gaelic Kingdom of western Scotland and northeastern Ireland during the 6th – 7th centuries CE.
I have curved the body to render a more wearable design, as the original is more rectangular. It is 3.5cm x 2.4 cm. The dog has a little white face, and it available in red, green, blue or black enamel.
