Design for Firescreen, Hounds

William Hunt Diederich's preliminary sketch depicts two dynamic hounds in pursuit, rendered in bold charcoal lines with cross-hatching that suggests volume and movement. The composition, framed within a rectangular border, shows the artist's characteristic approach to animal form—elongated limbs, arched bodies, and alert postures capture the essential energy of the chase. This design study exemplifies Diederich's work as a metalsmith and sculptor who frequently drew inspiration from animal subjects. The sketch's architectural framing and decorative potential indicate its purpose as a firescreen design, a functional art object that would translate these graceful forms into wrought iron or similar metal work.