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AN EXTRAORDINARY HUGE FRENCH LEATHER MODEL OF A DOBERMAN
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Description
AN EXTRAORDINARY HUGE FRENCH LEATHER MODEL OF A DOBERMAN PINSCHER DOG WEARING ELABORATE COLLAR WITH ORMOLU MOUNTS AND HARNESSES
#3025
An Extraordinary Huge French Leather Model of a Doberman Pinscher Dog Wearing Elaborate Collar with Ormolu Mounts and Harnesses
French - Circa 1880
This incredibly lifelike oversized portrayal of a Doberman stand 1.33 meters in height is executed entirely in leather with the addition of glass eyes and some gilt metal mounts. The sheer scale of this piece, which is truly massive and larger than life, is very unusual but it is the detailing of the collar and body harness which suggests that this is a portrait of a particular dog rather than simply a generic image.
The dog's collar, which is comparable to those produced for dogs owned by the very wealthy during the 18th and 19th centuries, is profusely mounted with ormolu. The cost of these mounts alone would have made this a very expensive commission.
Additionally, the main mount, under the dog's chin, is fascinating as it portrays the French eagle associated with Napoleon and the first Empire period. Napoleon himself was said to have hated dogs for much of his life until having something of an epiphany late in his military career. When exiled on Elba he had a black and white dog so this dog cannot be an image of the emperor's companion. Who this noble dog was, therefore, must remain a mystery at this point but he was clearly well-loved and thought worthy of commemoration and this leather sculpture is a fitting tribute to man's best friend.
Dimensions
Width 49 1/2 inches - 125cm
Height 52 1/2 inches - 133cm
Depth 17 inches - 44cm -
More Information
Origin: France Period: 19th Century Condition: Good. Styles / Movements: Traditional Dealer Reference #: 3025 Incollect Reference #: 733011 -
Dimensions
W. 49.5 in; H. 52.5 in; D. 17 in; W. 125.73 cm; H. 133.35 cm; D. 43.18 cm;
Message from Seller:
Loveday Antiques, established in London in 1969 and now run by Alexander in Hertfordshire, specializes in an eclectic mix of 18th, 19th, and 20th-century European furniture and works of art. For inquiries, please contact info@lovedayantiques.co.uk or call 01438 869819—our showrooms are open by appointment, offering a relaxed, personalized experience for collectors and designers.