English, c.1870, three 'muff dogs' posed in painted brickwork scenery in curved papiermache glazed case, each 'fully grown dog' with a body length of approximately 10cm, in later (early 20th century) wooden case with brass plaque ' Fully Grown Chinese Muff Dogs reputed to be over 100 years old on loan from the previous Landlord Mr S Harper' and a further explanatory card 'Miniature Chinese Muff Dogs, This case was kept for many years in the Jolly Sailor Inn in Quay Street, Orford (see photograph) The dogs are believed to have been bred for carrying in the sleeves of kimonas [sic] The origin of these specimens is unknown', case 41.5cm across