Bonhams Auction — Interior Design Hound

Antique Terracotta DOGS add Personality to a Home’s Décor

Do you remember the antique terracotta Dog from the Cashier’s Designer Showhouse?

If you missed the showhouse, you can read about here.

The life-sized Bulldog looked right at home on the window seat of the Gallery of Dogs designed by Sally Johannessen.

Life-sized Terracotta Dog. Image: IDH

Christie’s has four similar Pups going up for auction next week in London. (Sale 3691). Here’s the description of Lot 1296:

“An Austrian glazed terracotta model of a Bulldog and three models of Pug Dogs. Late 19^th Century.”

Antique Terracotta Dogs. Image: Christie’s

The Bulldog appears as if he is a serious fan of treats.

And I think Christie’s “recumbent Dog” could have come from the same litter as the Cashier Designer Showhouse Dog, don’t you?

Antique Terracotta Dog. Image: Christie’s

Antique terracotta Dogs make wonderful home accents for any Dog-lover’s décor.

I like to tuck the Dogs into a shelf with books or feature them on a side table depending on their scale.

Pug & Vintage Dog Collar Image: Heather & Co.

The antique Dogs can be found in sizes ranging from several inches to life-size.

At 13” high, the Pug above is wearing an Vintage Dog Collar, while the Bulldog up for auction at Christie’s measures in at 17” high.

Terracotta Pug. Image: Bonham’s

If you’re a lucky Dog you might find a pair…

Terracotta Pugs. Image: Antique Atlas

While I’ve seen reproductions, if you’re on the hunt for an antique terracotta Dog, look for the signature Austrian glass eyes and signs of age.

Antique Terrier. Image: English Accent Antiques

Many breeds of the terracotta Dogs are running around from the late 19^th century, with Pugs being the most common.

Bulldogs, Jack Russell Terriers and Dachshunds can also be found.

Antique Dachshunds. Image: Bonham’s

When antiquing for Dog collectibles, I’m less concerned with the pedigree of a piece than the look and personality.

How’s this Puppy for personality?

19^th Century Pug. Image: Atlas Antiques

Just what is it about Pugs?

With their curly tails and funny expressions (and noises), I always find them amusing!

Pug with Personality. Image: Atlas Antiques

Happy Antique Dog hunting!

If you have a special antique or vintage Dog in your collection, send in a picture, I love to see it.

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,

Want more? Check out what we dug up...

Dig This Antique Dog Bed

Antique English Mahogany Dog Bed.

Antique Dogs: How Much Is That Doggie In the Window?

Art Deco Dog Design found on Vintage Cast Iron Dog Doorstops & Antique Dog Fireplace Andirons.

Canine Chinoiserie: Asian Inspired Décor, DOG Beds & DOG Bowls

Asian Inspired Dog Designs.

Vintage Dog Carriers: Decorating with Antique Canine Collectibles

Decorating with vintage Dog Carriers.

Dog Pillows: Adding Punch to Your Home’s Décor with Canine Cushions

Dog pillows & Dog wallpaper add Canine style to home decorating.

Dig This Antique Dog Bed

Antique Dogs: How Much Is That Doggie In

Canine Chinoiserie: Asian Inspired Décor, DOG Beds &

Vintage Dog Carriers: Decorating with Antique Canine Collectibles

Dog Pillows: Adding Punch to Your Home’s Décor

Bonhams Dog Auction

In February, all roads lead to New York City for Dog Fanciers.

Yes, the city hosts the Westminster Dog Show, but there are other Dog events that are downright drool-worthy…

Especially if you’re interested in Canine artworks, collectibles & antiques.

Oil on Canvas, Frank Paton 1892. Lot 167. Image: Bonhams, 2011

The annual Bonhams Dog Auction is not to be missed.

It’s considered the Super Bowl for antique Dog enthusiasts!

Bonhams’ Dog Sale Catalogs (2008 & 2009) are collectibles.

This year, the Bonhams Auction, Dogs in Show & Field, The Fine Art Sale, is sure to be another winner. It will be held on February 16th at Bonhams on Madison Avenue.

Make your Mutt a “Best In Show” Winner! Lot 24, 2011

Westminster Kennel Club Bowl by Tiffany. Image: Bonhams

Bonhams was the first major auction house to appreciate that Dog collectors and canine enthusiasts are well…

… barking mad about their Dogs.

Victorian Brass Butler’s Bell, fetched $3300 in 2008.

See the bell in action in the video below Image: Bonhams

Beginning in 1982, their Dog auctions have offered an intriguing array of Dog paintings, watercolors, prints, jewelry, décor, accessories and Dog collars.

Victorian Dog Collar, fetched $3355 in 2009. Image: Bonhams

These Dog treats attract an equally intriguing mix of Dog fanciers. All walks of life can be found at the Bonhams Dog sale.

A special preview, Barkfest at Bonhams benefiting the AKC Humane Fund, offers a champagne brunch and your Canine companion is welcome.

Your Dog can view the items up for bid while sniffing & mingling with other art aficionados.

Zack, the Bull Terrier at Barkfest 2008. Image: Daylife, Rueters.

The people watching is the best.

You will see International art connoisseurs, socialites, the *elite* of the Dog show world (Have you ever seen the mockumentary movie Best In Show?), along with just plain average folks, like you & me.

Barkfest. Image: American Kennel Club, Russell Bianca.

If you’re a real Auction Hound, you know that anything can happen at an auction.

While there have been astonishing results in the past, the prices run the gambit at the Bonhams Dog Auction and many times you can sniff out a real bargain! (the lowest gavel prices are less than $200.)

Can’t make it to New York? You can register to bid via telephone.

Check out the wonderful video overview of the Bonhams Dog Auctions below. Bonhams’ Charles O’Brian and Alan Fausel give an informative & personal tour of the 2008 Dog Sale.

If Alan Fausel looks familiar to you, you probably recognize him from The Antiques Road Show television program.

Don’t miss the silver-plated, pooper-scooper with the carved ivory handle!

Later, I’ve got to let the Dog out,