Fontinelle Louis - Pekingese in ceramics

Fontinelle Louis 1886-1964 Pekingese in ceramics. Pekingese dog figure with monochromatic ceramic signed on the back L. FONTINELLE, masterfully designed by Parisian artist Louis Fontinelle (1886-1964). This French Art Deco sculpture dates from 1925, is in excellent condition, with ivory-colored patina and the inscription inside the figure: EMUNAR PARIS. 

The considered work depicts an elegant Pekingese sitting idly on an oval plinth; physical features, the characteristic flattened face, and very dense long hair outline the inseparable traits of these little emperors: loyal, obedient, affectionate, sociable, with a clear tendency towards a sedentary lifestyle (the Pekingese was already a salon dog in Chinese royal courts over 2000 years ago)! 

The origins of this breed are very old; it was originally a dog from the imperial family of Beijing, later brought to Europe by English and French soldiers in 1860. Until now, the “Pekingese” was distinguished by curved limbs to prevent separation from the imperial residence. The breed standard, developed by Empress Dowager Cixi (Tzu-Hsi), stipulated that this dog must be picky about food, have a furry collar that gives it dignity, hairy feet to avoid noise while walking, and a coat in any color to match the dog’s outfit. The legs had to be arched to prevent slipping. 

After export, it gained particular popularity and fame throughout Great Britain, which is why the general recognition of the breed is attributed to the Anglo-Saxon island along with China.

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