A large Austin & Seeley greyhound garden statue

This regal, elegant single greyhound has incredible form, detail and proportion. The scale is substantial: 118cm in length. It is by renowned makers Austin & Seeley.* There is no better name, fetching excellent prices in pairs and singly.

The dog lays in a recumbent but ready position, full of poise and grace. There is excellent weathering with some losses as seen, which could be restored though we love this honest piece as it is. The head can be orientated to your choosing.

This statue is not to be missed. It is an important, rare thing that will take pride of place in the years to come in any setting.

Please note that this is a heavy, strong two person lift. We recommend Proovia for this two-man delivery service, or you are welcome to collect in person with appropriate assistance.

The bench pedestal is not included, however it is listed separately.

Dimensions:

All approximate

Length 118cm

Height 50cm

Width 35cm

A bit of history on Austin & Seeley:

Felix Austin went into business in 1828 having bought moulds from a firm that had gone out of business. He established works in New Road, London, describing himself variously as an architect, statuary mason and sculptor as well as artificial stone maker. His material was not the same as the ceramic body used by Mrs Coade but made from Portland cement, broken stone, pounded marble and coarse sand (The Builder 1868). However, like Mrs Coade, he encouraged leading architects and designers to work for him. Around 1840 he entered into partnership with John Seeley to make beautiful garden antiques.

Seeley had trained at the Royal Academy Schools and also made an artificial stone which he called artificial limestone, before entering into partnership with Austin. In 1841 they published their first catalogue, Pleasure Grounds etc. from their address in New Road. The preface begins “Austin‘s Artificial Stone is of a light tint, requires no painting or colouring, will not sustain injury from the severest winter, and, being impervious to wet, is particularly applicable to all kinds of water works. Its superiority is now so thoroughly established, that the most eminent architects and scientific gentlemen have expressed, in their highest terms, their approbation of its durability, and close resemblance to the real stone”. (Source: UKAA).

Condition: Where there are specific points to note we will detail these as far as possible but please be aware that all our items have wear commensurate with age and are as seen in the photographs. If you require any specific information please do not hesitate to get in contact. Please note that this piece will be stored outside and so will continue to weather and change further. Please message for updated images if required.

Collection only

Please note: This item cannot be shipped but we have an excellent and competitive bespoke courier service. Please email us for more information or a quote. If you wish to collect in person, or to use our courier service, please select "Pick up" at checkout.