French Art Deco Whippet Smoking Stand, Cast Iron, Circa 1925-1930

A highly collectible and sculptural French Art Deco smoking stand, epitomizing the elegance and stylization of the 1920s. This exceptional stand features the iconic silhouette of a sleek, elongated Whippet or Greyhound standing proudly as the handle, its arched back forming a perfect, graceful bridge over the ashtray. The dog is rendered in cast iron with a wonderful, original blackened patina that highlights its musculature and Art Deco line. The stand is supported by an elegant, openwork column with stylized geometric and foliate motifs, terminating in a heavy, tri-footed lotus base that provides excellent stability. It retains its original, removable copper tray with a scalloped, ruffled edge. The center of the copper dish is beautifully etched with a Japanese-inspired crane or heron amongst reeds - a detail typical of the Japonisme influence so prevalent in French Deco ironwork of this period. In the manner of Edgar Brandt and the great French ferronniers. Perfect as a side table for a cigar lounge, as a small drinks table, as an entryway catch-all for keys, or as a pedestal for a sculpture. A true conversation piece that combines animalier sculpture with superb metalwork. Dimensions: Height: 27.5 in Width: 8 in Depth: 8 in Style: Art Decor Materials and Techniques: Iron, Copper Date of Manufacture: Early-20th Century Condition: Distressed Wear consistent with age and use.