SKITTLE PLAYING PUGS ( Vintage
Vienna Bronze
Pug Dogs ): Is it going to be a “Flattener” (strike) or a “Broken
frame”? At least it’s not a “Beaver” (missed ‘em all) during the “Hand”.
Skittles is an old European 9 pin sport, the forbearer of present day 10
pin bowling. It was very popular in
Austria.
OK, I did have to look up all those Skittle terms. My favorite is that
Skittle “may be the onomatopoeic word that describes the noise made when
the skittles fall”. Enough about my research – HOW ‘BOUT
THIS GREAT OLD BRONZE BEAUTY? Rare, charming and in great condition. From
a
Florida estate collection.
I have taken some close-up photos of a pug to show you how the quality and
detail of the sculpting of the old Vienna Bronzes far surpasses that of
the new, acrylic painted ones, now dominating the market. This piece dates
from the early 20th Century and, as a bonus, bears the Fleur-de-lis
hallmark – one of the two used by Franz Bergmann, the most famous of
Vienna Bronze sculptors. By the hallmark is the word “GESHUTZT” meaning “protected” (i.e. copyright or patented). Condition:
Excellent. Only a little paint rubbed from the table legs and ball. Size:
7 1/4” long, 1 7/8” high, 3” deep.
