Dogs on a Sidewalk (likely from the 'Barking' or 'London Dog' series)
Set of three etchings with aquatint and hand-coloring on paper • Boris O'Klein (1893–1985), born Boris Oleg Klein
Style & Movement
Art Deco Humorous Illustration / Paris School
Medium & Technique
Etching and drypoint with aquatint, finished with hand-applied watercolor or gouache; pencil signed
Creation Period
Circa 1920s - 1930s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 45 cm (image size) per piece; elongated landscape format
Subject Description
Anthropomorphic dogs of various breeds (terriers, bulldogs, greyhounds) engaging in humorous social interactions on a city sidewalk, including waiting at a lamp post (le 'WC' des chiens) or showing interest in one another.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair (overall assessment limited by image quality; visible signs of paper oxidation and minor mat burn)
Estimated Market Value
$450 - $750 for the set of three
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 for the set of three
Provenance History
Likely acquired as souvenir prints from Paris art dealers or galleries; commonly sold in the mid-20th century to international collectors.
Art Historical Significance
Boris O'Klein was a prolific French artist known for his 'Dirty Dogs of Paris' series. His work captures the lighthearted, cheeky humor characteristic of the interwar period and remains highly collectible in the niche of canine-themed art.
Notable Features
Includes the artist's distinctive pencil signature in the lower right and handwritten titles in French (such as 'A la queue' or 'Chacun son Tour') in the lower left.
Condition Issues
Visible yellowing of the paper (foxing or acid burn from non-archival mats), potential light-fading of the hand-colored pigments, and minor rippling of the paper supports.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-matting using acid-free museum board and UV-protective glazing; maintain in a humidity-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.