Pair Whippet Dog Bronze Statues After Philippe Poitevin (1837-1907)
This pair of whippet dog statues after Philippe Poitevin (1837-1907) are very finely sculpted, cast and patinated. They are contemporary pieces, likely no more than 30 years old and stand 32 in (81 cm) tall. Unsigned.
According to Sotheby's, Poitevin was born in Saint-Maximin and studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He began exhibiting at the Paris Salon in 1855, showing busts, medallions, animals and genre scenes. He's best known for his contributions to the design of the Château d'eau in the Parc Longchamp in Marseilles. This pair of whippets were originally designed as stands and were introduced early in his career, circa 1855-1860. For an example, see lot 218 of Sotheby's sale in New York on April 15, 2011, which was offered with an estimate of $20,000-$30,000.
