Bronze Sculpture Dog (1850)

Zinc casting of a German Shorthaired Pointer, (1850). 

Org. size: ca. 30x18x10 cm

Scan is done with a RevoPoint Inspire 3D Scanner

Resinprinter: AnyCubic Photon

Resin: ABS Like Resin

Origin and Temporal Context

Zinc casting was a popular material for creating sculptures in the 19th century, particularly as a more affordable alternative to bronze. Between around 1850 and 1900, the so-called "white metal casting" or "spelter" was widely used—especially in France, Germany, and Austria.

Typically, such figures were:

Mass-produced, but often with handcraft finishing touches.

Made after bronze originals, particularly in the case of animal figures, hunting scenes, or mythological themes.

Part of decorations in bourgeois households (fireplaces, desks, sideboards, etc.).

🐕 Hunting Dog as a Motif

Hunting dogs, particularly pointing dogs, were a popular motif of the time—both in fine art and applied arts. The extended tail likely indicates a pointing posture, which was typical for hunting and animal depictions.

Some of the most renowned animal sculptors of this period included:

Pierre-Jules Mêne (1810–1879) – a French sculptor, known for excellent bronze sculptures of hunting dogs.

Jules Moigniez – also French, with similar motifs in his works.

Friedrich Goldscheider – from Vienna, who created many cast works in zinc and ceramics, often with hunting themes.