1970s Bronze Dachshund Paperweight on Leather Base

Details

Description

iscovered among the library treasures of a distinguished Vermont country estate, this captivating mid-20th century bronze sculpture exemplifies the enduring … Read more iscovered among the library treasures of a distinguished Vermont country estate, this captivating mid-20th century bronze sculpture exemplifies the enduring tradition of canine portraiture in the gentleman's study. The piece captures the noble dachshund—that quintessential companion of European nobility and American country gentlemen alike—rendered with remarkable anatomical precision and character.
The Artistry of Form
Finely cast in bronze, this sculpture presents the dachshund in a dignified seated pose, the elongated body positioned with aristocratic bearing. The artist has achieved exceptional detail in the modeling: from the expressive countenance and alert, intelligent gaze to the carefully articulated musculature and well-defined proportions that speak to keen observation of the breed. The subtle facial expression conveys both the breed's characteristic determination and gentle companionship.
The bronze has developed a naturally aged patina of considerable aesthetic appeal, displaying attractive surface variation consistent with decades of careful handling. This organic patination enhances the sculptural depth, creating beautiful tonal contrasts that bring the form to life under changing light.
The Book as Pedestal
Ingeniously mounted upon a leather-bound book-form base, this distinguished paperweight transcends mere desk accessory to become a sophisticated comment on the intersection of literature, learning, and loyal companionship—the trinity of the cultivated life. The faux book base, showing appropriate light edge wear that speaks to its vintage, allows the piece to anchor correspondence and documents with particular elegance. This clever conceit was a favored device among mid-century European sculptors, evoking the traditional gentleman's study where hounds might rest beside stacks of volumes.
Historical Context
The dachshund, originally bred in Germanic lands for its hunting prowess, achieved particular favor among collectors and country gentlemen throughout the 20th century. Bronze sculptures of the breed proliferated in the mid-century period, celebrating the dachshund's transformation from working dog to beloved companion and symbol of refined domesticity.
Condition & Provenance
The sculpture presents in very good vintage condition with patination and surface character consistent with age and careful stewardship. The book base exhibits the honest wear one expects from a well-loved piece, adding to rather than detracting from its narrative appeal.
Details

Period: Mid-Late 20th Century (circa 1950s-1970s)
Materials: Bronze sculpture with leather-bound book-form base
Dimensions: Approximately 6" L x 4" W x 3" H
Subject: Dachshund in seated pose
Function: Desk paperweight and decorative sculpture
Origin: Unknown maker
Condition: Very good vintage condition; attractive age-appropriate patina; light wear to base consistent with age
Ideal Placement: Library, study, gentleman's desk, dog-themed collection

A charming addition to the discerning collector's study or an inspired gift for the dachshund devotee who appreciates fine decorative arts. See less