Ancient bronze sculpture depicting the figure of a dog, Molosser, tied to a chain by P.Lecourtier

P. Lecourtier Bronze Rampant Dog exhibited at the Salon des Beaux Arts in 1878. 

An ancient bronze sculpture depicting a dog, a Molosser, chained. The figure with beautiful bronze patina is signed on the oval base by P. Lecourtier. Prosper Lecourtier (Gremilly 1851-Paris 1924) was a French sculptor, a student of E. Fremiet, from whom he inherited his passion for the animal world. He exhibited at the Paris Salon from 1875. The sculpture in question was exhibited in 1878, as noted on the front edge of the base. There is a sign on the pillar with the inscription “prenez garde au chien”. It is in excellent condition.

Beautiful antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Today, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage items that possess a distinct character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, especially the prevailing Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture and accessories date from the late 18th to early 19th century, originating from the reign of Napoleon. This style features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese “barocco,” meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Exclusive materials were selectively used to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. The Renaissance style is also significant, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and leaving a profound mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, often using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These were quite distinctive products, but they also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cabinets and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common motifs in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, drawing inspiration from Italian and French creators. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, giving each style a unique character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of elite antique furniture is originality. This is ultimately crucial for buyers, as many forgeries circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the authenticity of the product in accordance with its description and photos. We have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.