Overview
This is a classic piece of sporting art depicting a faithful retriever mid-task, capturing the 'soft mouth' grip essential to a hunting dog.
Preliminary identification
Cold-Cast Bronze Labrador Retriever Sporting Sculpture
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
The 1980s saw a massive resurgence in 'country house' style, where items celebrating rural life and field sports became essential decor for suburban dens and offices.
Maker / Origin
While no signature is visible, this style is consistent with companies like Heredities in the UK or various American sporting giftware firms that specialized in 'cold-cast bronze.'
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with a consistent patina. There is some minor dust in the crevices and light wear to the wooden base, which is typical for its age. The matte finish seems well-preserved; avoid harsh chemicals which can strip the metallic resin coating.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD