Want to explore the full story?
In ROMA CANES MUNDI I trace the history of dogs in Roman society — through archaeology, genetics, literature, and art.
If you love dogs and history, this world will fascinate you.
#AncientDogs #DogHistory #CanineArchaeology #Tesem #BassetHound #ROMACANESMUNDI

Curious about the Tesem and other ancient breeds? You’ll find their stories in my book ORIGINS – In Search of Ancient Dog Breeds. Archaeology, iconography, genetics, myth and truth. Available in paperback and digital formats. #OriginsBook #Tesem #DogHistory

Genetics don’t lie: the Pharaoh’s Hound is a recent breed, no older than 80 years. But it has close relatives: – Cirneco dell’Etna – Podenco Ibicenco – Whippet The Tesem? A vanished ancestor. No remains found. Only art. #DogGenetics #Tesem #AncientDogs

“Tesem” literally means “hunting dog.” Pointed ears, sharp muzzle, curled tail. It wasn’t a Sloughi. It wasn’t a Kelb Tal Feneck. And no, it wasn’t the modern Pharaoh’s Hound. #DogAnatomy #Tesem #Greyhounds

The Tesem wasn’t just a hunting dog. It was a companion of pharaohs, a gazelle slayer, a noble icon. We see it on ritual discs, tomb frescoes, and bas-reliefs. Then, suddenly… it vanishes. Not from texts—from art. #Egyptology #Tesem #LostBreed

A princess once called it “shaped like an arrow.” For Nomarch Senbi II, it was his “breath of life.” A dog so loved in ancient Egypt, it was painted, sculpted, and carved into memory. Today we talk about the Tesem—the mysterious Egyptian hunting dog. #Tesem #AncientDogs #DogHistory