Description
Pair of Chinese Qianlong porcelain puppies, modelled in mirror form. The Spaniels depicted seated with their heads turned with expectant faces and bushy tails. The hounds painted in fine brushstrokes in grisaille with iron red collars suspending gilt bells.
Illustrated in Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 275, no. 332.
Provenance: Earle D. Vandekar, New York, 16 March 1990; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Sargent, "The Copeland Collection," pp. 184-5, 186-7.
Lot Essay:
These spaniel figures were popular export items and were available in a variety of body colors. They can also be found in smaller sizes in a reclining position (see Sargent, "The Copeland Collection," pg. 187, no. 90). While earlier models likely were portrayed with the mouth open with tongue showing, they were later closed so that the additional work of insetting a tongue was not necessary. While generally identified as a King Charles Spaniel, they often lack the typical white forehead. The figures are generally believed to be based on European originals, but no prototypes have been identified.
(Each) height: 7 in x width: 5 in x depth: 3 1/4 in.
Illustrated in Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 275, no. 332.
Provenance: Earle D. Vandekar, New York, 16 March 1990; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Sargent, "The Copeland Collection," pp. 184-5, 186-7.
Lot Essay:
These spaniel figures were popular export items and were available in a variety of body colors. They can also be found in smaller sizes in a reclining position (see Sargent, "The Copeland Collection," pg. 187, no. 90). While earlier models likely were portrayed with the mouth open with tongue showing, they were later closed so that the additional work of insetting a tongue was not necessary. While generally identified as a King Charles Spaniel, they often lack the typical white forehead. The figures are generally believed to be based on European originals, but no prototypes have been identified.
(Each) height: 7 in x width: 5 in x depth: 3 1/4 in.
Condition
Light wear to the footrims. A few very minor frits to the tips of the toes. A few areas with light scuffs to the paint layer. Some loss to the gilt along the bells. One dog with an area of repair to the tip of the tail and back foot near the tail.
Buyer's Premium
30%
Pair of Qianlong Mirrored Dog Figures
Estimate $3,000-$6,000
Starting Bid
$1,500
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Shipping & Pickup DetailsItem located in: St. Paul, MN, US Local pickup available Arrange Your Own Shipping
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This auction is curated by:
Sean BlanchetAsian Art Specialist
Robert SnellPaintings and Sculpture Specialist
Leo & Doris Hodroff Chinese Export Collection
Nov 12, 2026, 11:00 AM ESTSt. Paul, MN, United States
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