Emile GALLE (1846-1904) "Bulldog dog" in polychrome enamelled earthenware, glass eyes. Signed on one leg inside "G ☨R" (for Gallé-Reinemer). H. 31 x 19 cm Condition: Left ear tip reattached Provenance: Private collection, Vaud Private collection, Vaud Note: Émile Gallé is best known as a master glassmaker, but he also experimented with ceramics, especially in his early years. This practice was part of his desire to explore all the decorative arts. His ceramics are in the same spirit as his glassworks: a celebration of fauna and flora and an influence of Japonism. Émile Gallé's ceramic Bulldog dogs are rare and emblematic of his earthenware production, illustrating his commitment to Art Nouveau and his interest in stylised animal forms. The signature "G R" appears on earthenware, ceramic and glass pieces produced between 1860 and 1880. Our dog therefore bears witness to the early days of Gallé.