Antique Solid Bronze Bulldog Sculpture, Late 19th–Early 20th Century

Details

Description

This charming, solid bronze sculpture depicts a recumbent pug or bulldog puppy, rendered with expressive detail and character. Likely dating … Read more This charming, solid bronze sculpture depicts a recumbent pug or bulldog puppy, rendered with expressive detail and character. Likely dating to the late 19th or early 20th century, it reflects the popularity of small animalier bronzes during the Victorian and Edwardian periods, when such pieces were prized as elegant desk ornaments and paperweights.

The sculptor skillfully captures the breed’s distinctive features, including the deeply furrowed brow, rose ears, and softly folded skin around the neck, giving the figure a lifelike and endearing presence. A rich, dark chocolate-brown patina covers the surface, with subtle verdigris oxidation visible in recessed areas—an appealing indicator of age in authentic antique bronze.

The underside shows a rough, hand-finished texture with visible file marks, suggesting a traditional lost-wax casting process. A hand-inscribed inventory number, “160219,” likely reflects a previous gallery or estate cataloging system and adds to the piece’s provenance.

Both sculptural and decorative, this bronze makes a refined accent for a desk, bookshelf, or study, embodying the enduring charm and craftsmanship of antique animalier sculpture. See less