A Fine Pair of French Art Deco Gold-Patinated Saluki Sculptures
£650.00
Description
A striking and highly decorative pair of French Art Deco sculptures, featuring two seated Salukis (Persian Greyhounds) in a characteristic "scenting" or howling pose. Each hound is expertly cast in spelter (régule) and finished with a rich, lustrous gold patination that epitomizes the glamour of the interwar period.
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A Fine Pair of French Art Deco Gold-Patinated Saluki Sculptures
A striking and highly decorative pair of French Art Deco sculptures, featuring two seated Salukis (Persian Greyhounds) in a characteristic "scenting" or howling pose. Each hound is expertly cast in spelter (régule) and finished with a rich, lustrous gold patination that epitomizes the glamour of the interwar period.
The artist has masterfully captured the elegant, elongated anatomy of the Saluki—a breed that became an icon of the Art Deco era due to its sleek, streamlined silhouette. Each figure is mounted upon its original, substantial pink and white veined marble base, providing a sophisticated contrast to the golden metallic finish. Originally intended as grand bookends or mantel garnitures, these sculptures serve as a powerful statement of 1920s European design.
France, circa 1925–1930.
The 1920s saw a resurgence in "Animalier" (animal-subject) art, where focus shifted from literal realism toward stylized abstraction. Greyhounds and Salukis were particularly favored by French designers because their natural speed and thin frames mirrored the "Machine Age" obsession with aerodynamics and velocity.
While these specific examples are unsigned, they are typical of the high-quality foundry work produced in Paris for luxury boutiques. The use of spelter was a hallmark of the accessible luxury market that flourished following the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs.
Dealer's Note: Individual spelter dogs are common, but matching pairs in this specific "howling" pose are much rarer. The pink marble bases are particularly desirable as they fit current interior design trends for warmer, "rose" tones.
Condition
In very good original condition. The gold-painted surface retains a lovely depth and sheen, with only minor "rubbing" to the high points (ears and snouts) commensurate with age.
The spelter remains structurally sound with no fractures or historic repairs.
The pink and white marble is in excellent order. Minor "nibbles" or tiny flecks may be present at the corners, which is typical for heavy marble of this period.
A well-matched pair that presents beautifully with a genuine period patina.
Measurement
Height   16 cm  /  6.3 inches
Width    23 cm  /  9.1 inches
Depth    10 cm  /  3.9 inches
Weight   1.5 k.g /  3.3 lbs
