The Cushie Doo statuette by renowned animal sculptor Phyllis Bone (1894–1972) captures the delicate form of a wood pigeon, "cushie doo" being the Scot's term for the bird. Perched upon a bronze plinth, the pigeon's legs and part of its wings merge seamlessly into the base, creating a harmonious flow between the sculpture and its support. The beak, eyes, and other facial features are intricately moulded. While the body leans slightly forward, the wings are gently, partially spread, evoking a quiet moment of movement. This sculpture is part of a series of bronze animal statuettes by Bone, many of which were exhibited in Britain and Paris and are now held in numerous public and private collections.

Phyllis Bone, 1894-1972

Born in Hornby, Lancashire, Bone grew up in Edinburgh and studied at Edinburgh College of Art 1912-1918. After the war, she spent 18 months in Paris studying under Edouard Navellier, and went on to become a leading sculptor of animals. Forging a productive professional relationship with Robert Lorimer, she was commissioned by him to create the lion and unicorn at the entrance to the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle. Other important public works included animals for the Ashworth Laboratories at Edinburgh University (1928-9) and reliefs for St Andrew’s House (1936-39). Smaller works in bronze were exhibited regularly. In 1944, she became the first woman to be elected to full membership of the RSA.