Ceramic Dog Planter Appraisal

Ceramic Greyhound Dog Planter/Figurine

This item is a ceramic figurine or planter in the shape of a reclining greyhound or whippet dog. It measures approximately 12 inches in length. The material appears to be a glazed ceramic or earthenware, finished in a uniform light brown or tan color, suggestive of a fawn-colored dog. The dog is depicted in a graceful, recumbent pose, with its front paws extended forward and head held high, looking towards its right. The eyes are painted in black with a highlight to give them a lifelike quality, and the snout features subtle details. A thin, gold-colored chain, likely metal, is draped around its neck, acting as a collar, which adds a decorative touch. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced item, though the molding is delicate enough to capture the sleek form of the breed. There are no discernible manufacturer's marks or signatures visible from the image. While the item is described as being in 'good condition,' it does present a significant ‘hairline crack across hips,’ which is a notable condition issue that could impact its structural integrity and value. This crack is visible as a fine line traversing horizontally across the dog's hindquarters. Given its likely function as either a decorative figurine or a planter (often these types of ceramic animal figures have an opening in the back for plants), it represents a common mid-20th century to late 20th-century decorative aesthetic. The design is somewhat timeless for pet-themed decor, making an exact age difficult to pinpoint without further context, but it aligns with popular styles from the 1960s through the 1980s. The glaze has a slight sheen, suggesting it is a gloss finish rather than matte. The dog’s features are stylized rather than hyper-realistic, giving it a somewhat whimsical or charming appeal.