"Fala" was President Roosevelt's beloved black Scottish Terrier, perhaps the most famous of White House pets. Fala often traveled with the president, whether by auto, train, boat or plane. The press (and political cartoonists) loved to share Fala's stories of life in the White House. The dog was such a popular Democrat that even the opposition party attacked him when they could. Republicans complained bitterly that Fala once had been left-stranded during a trip with FDR to the Aleutian Islands—requiring the president to send a US Navy destroyer back to collect the little rascal. FDR made short work of his Republican critics; soon after, at a Teamsters' dinner and speech (which was radio-broadcast nationwide), Roosevelt pummeled the opposition for fabricating "libelous statements about my dog" whose "Scotch soul is furious." The terrier outlived FDR by seven years—and was buried near the president's grave when his time came. Today, at the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC, one can see a sculpted bronze Fala, sitting attentively near his master's feet.
This pair of Scottie bookends, made in the 1920's or 1930's, certainly pre-date the birth of Fala (1940). They are beautifully (and deeply) sculpted and have a wonderful, aged patina. Most interesting: they stand upon an Argyle plaid base—a discreet nod to the breed's Scottish ancestry. Please click on the photo above to learn more about them.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248