Swiss Hound Briquets – Antique Dog Print, circa 1880, French Publication
€ 140
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1880
Mapmaker / artist
Unknown, France, circa 1880
Technique
Engraving
Sheet size
24 × 30 cm (9.4 × 11.8 in)
Reference
BG-11-082
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Very good for its age, with only mild toning typical of early 20th-century prints. No major tears or repairs visible. Plate mark present and clear. The print is mounted on a blue backing, giving it an attractive presentation for display.
About this sheet
Swiss Hound Briquets – Antique Dog Print, circa 1880, French Publication
This fine 19th-century print depicts two Swiss Hound Briquets, a medium-sized scenthound breed from Switzerland renowned for its speed, stamina, and keen tracking ability. One hound is shown standing alert, the other lying in a relaxed yet watchful posture. The artist has captured the breed’s slender but muscular build, smooth short coat, and noble head, all of which distinguish it from heavier French scent hounds.
Originating from a French agricultural publication around 1880—likely L’Acclimatation, a periodical promoting rural industry, farming, and animal breeding—this print reflects the era’s fascination with cataloging domestic and working breeds. The Swiss Hound Briquet was valued for hunting hare, fox, and other small game in mountainous and lowland terrains, combining endurance with agility.
The engraving is rich in detail, with fine hatching used to render the sleek coats and subtle musculature of the hounds. The background is minimal, focusing attention entirely on the dogs’ form and posture, in keeping with late 19th-century breed portraiture styles.
Framing tips: A dark walnut or black wooden frame with a cream or soft gray mount will highlight the print’s contrast and lend a period-appropriate feel. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the paper’s integrity.
