This magnificent, Parian Ware sculpture, by Daniel Chester French, is an early work that depicts two dogs, a large Setter or Retriever, and a small Terrier. The small dog looks to be trying to gain the other dog’s attention by pawing at the larger dog’s face. That is in fact, the story this wonderful piece tells, in that the words “Imposing on Good Nature” are imprinted along the front of the base. Next to the larger dog is a very detailed basket that, at the time of its design, was used to hold either matchsticks or toothpicks. Painted a creamy, matte vanilla, this piece is quite substantial in size at 6″ tall x 9 1/2″ long x 4 1/2″ wide. “D. C. French” is imprinted along the back left side of the base. D. C. French (1850-1931), later became quite famous as the sculptor of the Lincoln Memorial. This piece, is one of a series of two similar pieces, depicting the same dogs at play. This one is the first of the two, and the second is entitled “Retribution.” This sculpture is in good condition, considering its age. There are some small spots where the paint has chipped. The one that is the largest is on the large dog’s ear, as shown in the pictures. Due to the color of the piece, the chip does not stand out, unless you look closely. There is also a minor crack along the small dog’s hind end, but it does not seem to have damaged the piece in any significant, structural way. This is truly an important, unique and beautiful work-of-art, that would add elegance to any room. For a collector, or a history buff, it is an amazing find!