Antique Bronze Hound Dogs c.1860 | French Animalier Sculpture

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Description


Antique Bronze Hound Dogs c.1860 | French Animalier Sculpture

Subject & Medium
A magnificent Victorian-era bronze sculpture, dating to around 1860, portraying a pair of noble hunting hound dogs—a male and a female—facing one another in a poised and lifelike moment. Cast in solid bronze, this piece is a beautiful representation of the Animalier style popular in 19th-century France.

Composition & Technique
The sculpture features detailed anatomy and fluid motion, with one dog gracefully raising a foreleg in alert posture. The pair are mounted on a naturalistic, stepped bronze plinth that enhances the scene’s realism. Although unsigned, the sculpture is clearly inspired by the style of Auguste Nicolas Caïn, a celebrated French Animalier sculptor.

Dimensions
Height: 22 cm
Base Length: 51.5 cm
Full Length (tail to edge): 54.5 cm
Width: 12 cm
Weight: Under 4 kg
A well-balanced size ideal for interior display, mantelpieces, or gallery shelving.

About Auguste Nicolas Caïn (1821–1894)
A leading sculptor in the French Animalier school, Caïn studied under Rude, Guionnet, and his father-in-law Pierre-Jules Mêne. He exhibited 38 pieces at the Paris Salon and is known for public monuments like Chiens de meute and Le Lion de Nubie. His bronzes are highly sought-after, with sales reaching up to $84,849 USD .

Provenance
From a private farmer’s collection
Acquired via a Shire antiques dealer
Currently held by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

Condition
Fine antique condition
Attractive aged patina with surface wear consistent with age
Structurally sound and visually authentic

Why Buy This?
Timeless subject matter – noble hounds full of lifelike grace
Fine 19th-century craftsmanship – Animalier bronze tradition
Decorative and collectible – suits collectors, designers, and dog lovers
Historic Victorian-era piece – circa 1860, rich in heritage
Ideal display size – substantial, yet manageable
Inspired by Auguste Caïn – a recognized master
Provenance from trusted sources
Original patina – authentic antique character



Reserve: $4,256.00

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