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. 

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 displayed in 1878, as noted on the front edge of the base. There is a mark 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 is 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 notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, dominated by the Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-styles of classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Empire-style furniture and accessories date from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This style originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Notable and worth mentioning are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. 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. Unique 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. An important style as well is Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, often using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These were quite distinctive products, offering 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 recreate such furniture, drawing inspiration from Italian and French artisans. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is 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 key to elite antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial for buyers, as many forgeries circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and accurate description with photographs. We have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.