Garden animal sculptures become collector’s items
Dorset auctioneers H Y Duke & Son, who have been established since 1823, are to auction a life-size marble statue of a young huntsman taking aim with his musket and a hound leaping at his feet.
The statue is believed to date back from 1720 and measures 73″ high. It was discovered in a west Dorset garden by one of Duke’s valuers on a routine visit. The statue is expected to fetch in excess of £10,000 when it goes under the hammer at their Dorchester Saleroom on 6 April.
Deborah Doyle of Duke’s said: “The statue is a typical example of an 18th century garden statue, when garden designers such as Capability Brown moved from the classicism of the 17th century to more naturalistic designs reflecting the mood of the period and the change in taste amongst the aristocracy.”
Animal art collectors are increasingly drawn to the West Country, which include Somerset Arts Week and Malvern Autumn Show in September.
The Studio Gallery in Somerset is popular with dog lovers. The gallery’s annual catalogue includes sculptures of dogs by Rosemary Cook, whose knowledge of breeds and their characteristics has led to her work being collected the world over.
Rosemary’s life-size sculptures include a variety of breeds from Labrador to Great Dane, as well as a Lurcher pair. The prices range from £585 – £1,695 and up to £2,250 (Lurcher pair).
Rosemary’s sculptures are usually cast in limited editions of 25 in bronze resin, or in editions of 12 in bronze and all figures are suitable for both indoors and gardens.
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
The Studio Gallery at Wedmore, Somerset (tel: 01934 713380). Open by appointment, or visit www.studiogallery.com.
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