Painted Dummy Board of an Alsatian/German Shepherd, English, 1970s–1980s

Vintage painted dummy board of an Alsatian, 1970s–80s, freestanding with bold character and theatrical charm. Why We Love This … Dummy boards have irresistible personality, and this Alsatian - now affectionately known as Kaiser - has presence, humour, and a wonderfully theatrical spirit. His scale, stance, and confident painted profile make him feel like a loyal guardian, full of charm and nostalgia. At a Glance - Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility • Date: 1970s–1980s • Origin: England • Style: Folk display; theatrical decorative object • Materials:   • Painted board   • Pine base   • Black‑painted reverse with carrying handle • Dimensions: H: 78cm (30.7") | W: 122cm (48") | D: 10cm (3.9") • Condition:   • Good vintage condition   • Painted one side   • Minor age‑related wear   • Freestanding and stable   • Ready for display • Notable Details:   • Strong graphic silhouette   • Freestanding form   • Painted reverse with handle   • Faces to the left   • Bold, characterful expression • Decorative Appeal:   • Playful, theatrical, and full of personality • Versatility:   • Ideal for hallways, studios, shops, or informal interiors • Collectibility:   • Increasingly sought‑after form of folk and theatrical display • Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase Heritage, History & Craftsmanship Dummy boards originated in 17th‑ and 18th‑century Britain, where painted cut‑out figures were placed in hallways to give the impression of a person standing guard. By the 20th century, they evolved into more playful decorative objects, often depicting animals or familiar characters. This 1970s–80s Alsatian reflects that later revival, combining bold graphic painting with a freestanding pine base and a practical carrying handle. The result is a piece that is both decorative and delightfully theatrical. Social History Used in homes, shops, theatres, and displays, dummy boards offered a charming blend of humour and visual impact. Their flat, cut‑out forms made them easy to move and position, while their subjects - from soldiers to animals - added personality to a space. This Alsatian captures the spirit of mid‑century decorative display, where character and playfulness were embraced in both domestic and commercial interiors. Explore Every Facet These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase • Painted profile • Pine base • Black‑painted reverse • Carrying handle • Silhouette and stance • Surface detail Viewed from the front, the painted surface delivers strong visual presence, while the reverse - painted black and fitted with a handle - speaks to its functional, moveable nature. Its freestanding form allows flexible placement without the need for wall fixing. Terminology by Style • Dummy Board - A flat, painted cut‑out figure used decoratively since the 17th century • Folk Display - Decorative objects with handmade or theatrical character • Silhouette Form - A flat profile shape with strong graphic impact • Painted Board - A traditional method for creating lightweight decorative figures • Theatrical Decorative Object - Items used to create atmosphere, humour, or presence Sustainable Style & Styling Suggestions Thank you for considering this painted dummy board of an Alsatian - a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible … in every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures. Vintage decorative objects such as dummy boards offer a sustainable alternative to modern décor. Already made and rich in character, they bring individuality and reuse together in a way that feels both responsible and distinctive. • Position in a hallway as a playful guardian • Use in a studio or creative space for character and humour • Ideal for shop display or window dressing • Pair with rustic, industrial, or eclectic interiors Purchase with Confidence White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship, and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Every item is described and photographed with care, offering complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. We are an established and trusted resource for both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the stories behind each piece, and appreciate these timeless furnishings in person. Delivery & Collection Information • Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase • Collection welcome from our Sussex showroom • Local delivery available • Nationwide couriers arranged on request