Patinated bronze ashtray or pocket emptier (vide – poche) with Pekingese dog and leaf, signed J. H. Hare, France 1880.

France circa 1880.

The object is designed in the shape of a leaf (likely a water lily or cabbage leaf, typical of the naturalistic repertoire of the era) upon which sits a stretching Pekingese dog. The bronze patina features a beautiful contrast of warm brown tones for the dog’s body.Art Nouveau Naturalism: The use of botanical elements such as leaves, branches, and flowers to shape everyday functional objects (like dishes, trays, and pocket-emptiers/vide-poches) is one of the defining hallmarks of French Art Nouveau and Liberty style.The Vogue of Lapdogs: The Pekingese breed became immensely popular in Europe during the late 19th century (following its introduction from China). Sculptors of the Animalier movement began to portray these exotic breeds extensively to cater to the tastes of the wealthy bourgeoisie of the era, who loved decorating their parlors with these small bronzes. This French bronze is signed J. R. Hare. France circa 1880.

Misure 2,5” – 6 CM H 4” – 10 CM L 7” – 18 CM D

Codice REF: M1065