Running Dog c. 16th century

Editor: This is Antonio Tempesta's "Running Dog," an etching of rippling energy. I'm struck by how much movement he captures with just lines. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It's like Tempesta's unleashed a tiny thunderbolt! The cross-hatching gives the dog texture, almost fur you can feel. I imagine him bursting from a larger narrative, a hunt perhaps. Editor: So, he's not just running for the sake of it? Curator: I doubt it. Consider the era. Dogs were symbols of loyalty, hunting prowess. This pup’s all coiled spring; he's got a purpose. What do you make of that curly tail? Editor: It's almost ornamental, a flourish in this otherwise sparse image. I see the determination now! Curator: Exactly! It's a tiny detail, but it speaks volumes. It gives the dog personality.