Dog Figurines
Sit, Fido, sit
The dog that doesn't shed, bark, or bite - but looks like it could. Dog figurines, such as those from Country Artists and Living Stone, are designed to be realistic miniatures of a particular breed in natural poses. The success of this illusion depends on the skill of the sculptor and painter.
Types of dog figurines
- Marble figurines are unique to each individual creation. Although the mix may be poured into a mold, the artist must carefully tend to the rough blank.
- Porcelain figurines begin as many molded pieces that are fastened together and trimmed, but any miscalculation is disastrous in the kiln.
- Fur figurines may be made of synthetic fiber or goat hair.
- Cast iron or pewter (no custom paint finish)
- Stone resin
Why dogs?
Dog sculptures often feature ideal conformation for particular breeds. Other sculptures may focus less on statuesque poses and capture the "life" of a dog in a natural pose, much like snapping a photo of a pet napping or playing in the yard. Dog lovers can commemorate a pet by commissioning a custom mold and finish.
Give a dog a bone
Some dog sculptures are accents to pieces, such as picture frames or door stops. Realistic details, especially in affectionate eyes and coarseness of hair, are still important to figurines with an added use. Of course, a dog cookie jar or salt shaker tends to have a "generic" bearing compared to the hand-crafted figurine.
Like many collectibles out there, skill, material, and availability factor into the price. A figurine could cost $5 or $300.