Bulldog Brawn in Bronze

Bulldog by Tomomi Maruyama (Bronze, 24" x 20" x 36")
Bulldog by Tomomi Maruyama (Bronze, 24" x 20" x 36")
Bulldog by Tomomi Maruyama (Bronze, 24" x 20" x 36")

Bulldog lovers and Yalies will swoon over the bronze sculpture standing watch in the vestibule of Mobilia Gallery in Cambridge. Painstakingly hand-fabricated by Japanese artist Tomomi Maruyama, the one-of-a-kind piece is made of hammered bronze using the repoussé process, and finished with the traditional Japanese urushi lacquer finish. The dog’s studded collar is of copper and brass.

Maruyama's Bulldog taking shape
Maruyama's Bulldog taking shape

Mobilia co-owner JoAnna Cooper says the burly watchdog attracts a lot of attention from passersby. Many visitors have asked if it’s a Botero, but she explains that Maruyama, an associate professor at the Tokyo University of the Arts, instead draws his inspiration from Japanese manga. As a powerfully built as a Sumo wrestler and standing two feet high, Maruyama’s piece looks as if it would weigh more than half a dozen real bulldogs, but, in fact, the sculpture is hollow – all bark and no bite.

And, before you ask, “How much is that doggie in the window?” better take a seat. The price is in the low five figures.

Established in 1978, Mobilia Gallery is located at 358 Huron Avenue on the corner of Gurney Street. Open to the public (Tuesday through Saturday and by appointment), Mobilia shows an ever-changing and intriguing range of decorative fine arts and studio jewelry by an international roster of artists. “Desert Crossing 2011,” an exhibit of glazed and incised porcelain vessels by Australian artist Pippin Drysdale, will open December 1 and run through the end of January 2012.

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