59 - Joseph Gott

Joseph Gott The Faithful Friend First half of the 19th century 40 x 56 x 26 cm The sculpture, carved from white statuary marble on a base of brecciated marble, depicts a dog crouching on rocky ground, with its head raised energetically and its mouth open in a cry. Scattered around the animal are several objects associated with its owner’s gear, elements that contribute to defining the narrative and intensely sentimental character of the composition. The subject can be traced back to Joseph Gott’s model known as *The Faithful Friend*. A signed example of the same model, in white marble on an alabaster base, was offered by Sotheby’s in London in 2015; the lot description also mentioned another version that had been sold at Sotheby’s London on December 2, 1987. Signature engraved on the edge of the base: “J. GOTT.” Reference bibliography: T. Friedman, T. Stevens (eds.), Joseph Gott, 1786–1860, Sculptor, exhibition catalog, Leeds City Art Gallery – Walker Art Gallery, Leeds-Liverpool, 1972.Comparison: Sotheby’s, London, Old Master Sculpture and Works of Art, July 8, 2015, lot 183, Joseph Gott, The Faithful Friend