Scotty Dog Desk Organizer

This 1932 desk organizer is a quintessential example of the “Barclay Scotty,” a motif that became one of the most recognizable designs produced by the McClelland Barclay Art Products Corporation. During the early 1930s, the Scottish Terrier became a symbol of rugged character and spirited personality, and Barclay’s interpretation of the breed helped solidify its status as the “it” dog of the era. The 1930s craze for Scottish Terriers was likely fueled by the breed’s popularity among celebrities and political figures of the time (such as FDR’s famous Scotty, Fala).

The “Barclay Scotty” Narrative

The Scotty dog on this piece is captured in a classic, inquisitive pose that showcases Barclay’s background as a commercial illustrator. The dog is depicted sitting upright with its head cocked slightly to the side and its ears pricked—a posture that suggests it is alert and waiting for a command.

The sculpting style is bold and impressionistic rather than literal. Instead of fine, individual hairs, Barclay utilized deep, expressive ridges and a “chiseled” texture to represent the dog’s thick, wire-haired coat. The figure is seamlessly integrated into the base, with the artist’s signature and the 1932 copyright date cast directly into the dog’s lower back.

Material: Bronze or Brass?

While the piece has the visual weight and rich patina of bronze, it is made of spelter (also known as white metal or pot metal). Barclay’s studio specialized in high-quality “Art Metal” castings made from these lead-zinc alloys, which were then finished with a bronze or brass plating (wash) to achieve a luxury appearance at a more accessible price point.

The set retains the original glass reservoir, the metal sleeve, and the funnel insert. The green felt on the bottom was the standard factory finish intended to protect the polished wood of executive desks.

Advertising and the Maker

McClelland Barclay was a titan of American commercial art before he turned his attention to sculpture. He was most famous for his “Body by Fisher” campaign for General Motors and his covers for magazines like Ladies’ Home Journal and Cosmopolitan.

• Advertising: His “Art Metal” line, including this Scotty organizer, was marketed as “Art for the Home” and sold in high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue. Advertisements often appeared in The New Yorker and Fortune, emphasizing that these were not just desk accessories, but signed works by a world-famous artist.
• The Maker’s Fate: Barclay’s career was tragically cut short during World War II. Having served as a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy, he was reported missing in action in 1943 after his ship was torpedoed in the Solomon Islands.