"Police Dogs" – Important animal sculpture in terracotta

"Period: early 20th century, around 1900-1920. Important and very beautiful animal sculpture in terracotta with a bronze patina, depicting two police dogs in a particularly expressive and realistic composition. This work is signed Th. CARTIER on the terrace and has an engraved identification plaque on its front: “POLICE DOGS – By Th. Cartier, Medalist at the Salon” Thomas Cartier (1879-1943), a French animal sculptor, is notably recognized for his representations of dogs and wild animals, treated with great attention to movement and anatomy. The composition features two police dogs in complementary attitudes: one, standing, with its body slightly lowered and head stretched forward, seems to be following a trail; the second, sitting, with ears perked up and attentive gaze, adopts a watchful posture. Both animals wear buckle collars, enhancing the evocative nature of the subject. The modeling work is particularly meticulous, especially in the rendering of musculature, expressions, fur, and postures. The whole rests on a large oval naturalistic terrace, finely crafted, bearing the artist's signature. The dark brown patina with golden hues recalls the appearance of animal bronzes from the Belle Époque and admirably highlights the reliefs of the sculpture. Characteristics: Artist: Thomas Cartier (1879-1943) Title: Police Dogs. Material: terracotta with bronze patina. Signature: Th. CARTIER, on the terrace. Plaque: “POLICE DOGS – By Th. Cartier, Medalist at the Salon” Period: early 20th century. Length: 80 cm. Height: 48 cm. Depth: 32 cm. Condition: beautiful presentation condition, with patina and signs of use. An important decorative animal sculpture, remarkable for its dimensions, the quality of its composition, and the presence of Thomas Cartier's signature.".