What is in this image? Describe it as if you were explaining it to someone from the 15th century.

The image shows a fanciful creature, much like a bear, crafted by a skilled painter using only black ink. This bear stands in a band of water, likely a shallow river or stream. The creature is encircled by an elaborate band or hoop—strangely adorned with large dots—as if it''s wearing a large, hollow ring around its main body for protection or support. The bear itself is drawn in a simple yet endearing manner, with large eyes and a substantial snout, giving it a gentle and approachable demeanor. This type of whimsical depiction might remind one of the tapestries or illuminated manuscripts where animals are sometimes rendered in human-like postures or with human accessories, engaging in activities beyond their natural habits.