British Medals from the Collection of James Spencer

Dogs, National Canine Defence League (Founded 1891), a bronze award medal by Spink, heads of three dogs left, rev. standing figure of Ulysses over reclining Argus, his dog, longboat at right, edge named (Mrs W. Bently Capper, 1933), 64mm. Good very fine (£40-50)

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, British Medals from the Collection of James Spencer.

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The tale of Argus, Ulysses' dog in Homer's Odyssey, is the story of a dog's devotion, trust in his master, the power of hope and the endurance of love. As a young man, Ulysses was called to war with the Trojans. Leaving his kingdom of Ithaca, he promised to return as quickly as possible to his wife Penelope, young son Telemachus and his beloved dog Argus. The war was long, the journey home treacherous, and 20 years passed before Ulysses returned to Ithaca. Shortly before he arrived home, Ulysses disguised himself as a beggar, for to appear as the long-lost king, who all believed dead, would have brought danger to his family. Arriving at his estate, Ulysses came upon a white dog spent with age who he recognized as his beloved Argus. Despite a 20-year separation and his master's disguise, Argus immediately recognized him. Upon hearing Ulysses' voice, Argus weakly lifted his head, cocked his ears and struggled to rise. Ulysses bent down to cradle his faithful companion's muzzle in his hands, renewing a bond that spanned 20 years; the ever-faithful dog, his patience and loyalty rewarded, his bond with Ulysses restored, died in peace. Illustration reduced