Grand Tour Bronze Recumbent Mastiff Dog

Grand Tour Bronze Recumbent Mastiff Dog

A superb example of 19th-century decorative art, this Grand Tour Bronze Recumbent Mastiff Dog captures the elegance and status of period bronzework. With its origins in France around 1830, the sculpture is executed in the refined Grand Tour style, widely prized by discerning European collectors of the era.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1830
Material: Patinated bronze on Siena marble plinth

Dimensions: Height: 14 cm (5.5 in), Width: 16 cm (6.25 in), Depth: 10 cm (4 in), Height including base: 17 cm (6.75 in)

Condition: Excellent patina; minor signs of age commensurate with period.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the Grand Tour was a rite of passage for Europe’s elite, who often acquired exquisite souvenirs such as bronze sculptures to commemorate their travels. This recumbent mastiff, with its powerful yet tranquil stance, nods to the popularity of animal motifs in neoclassical and Regency collections. Comparable works can be found in major institutions and distinguished private collections, exemplifying the affinity for animal portraiture amongst wealthy Grand Tour participants.

Notable Features:

• Exceptional Craftsmanship:
  Meticulously cast in patinated bronze, the sculpture details the mastiff’s musculature and serene temperament. Its naturalistic form demonstrates the technical prowess of French bronziers in the early 19th century.

• Distinguished Design:
  Resting upon a beautifully figured Siena marble plinth, the piece visually references neoclassical sobriety while exuding the robust presence characteristic of Regency animal studies.

• Collecting Value:
  Grand Tour bronzes of this scale and subject are especially sought-after, representing both a sophisticated taste and a tangible link to historic traditions of travel and education.

• Versatile Appeal:
  This bronze sculpture is eminently suitable for display on a desk, mantel, or within a curated collection of fine sculptures and statues. Its manageable size and timeless subject ensure it remains a focal point, either as a decorative highlight or as the start of an antique Grand Tour bronze collection.

An outstanding example of a Grand Tour bronze sculpture, this recumbent mastiff dog will delight both seasoned collectors and those newly appreciating the tradition of fine French animalier art.