Description

Fine pair of C19th Italian 'Grand Tour' souvenir carved alabaster lions after Antonio Canova . Excellent quality pair of carved lions originally sculpted by Antonio Canova (1757-1822) for the monumental tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St.Peter's Basilica ,Vatican City, Rome in 1792.
The original lions were carved by Canova from travertine marble , whilst copies were carved in the workshops of Rome from various marbles and stones for sale to 'Grand Tourists' ,as souvenirs from their classical tour and visit to the Eternal City.
Shown reclined on block bases , one lion is depicted sleeping , whilst the other is vigilant ; a detail said to represent the Pope's moderation and vigilance respectively.
Skilfully carved in alabaster with excellent true detail , the pair are mounted on Belgo Nero black marble bases. Great detail to mane ,face and bodies ,in accurate representation of the originals .The alabaster bodies have the appearance and colour of the the prized Carrara marble as used by the leading Renaissance and neo-classical sculptors.
Excellent condition and of good scale ,with minor nicks to the square edges of the alabaster bases. No breaks ,losses or repairs.
Examples grace the great country-house and museum collections of the world .
W 10.5"
H 6.5"
D 4"
Italy c.1850
Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .
Whether buying for pleasure , decoration or investment, we welcome you to our web-site or premises .
Past projects have included advising clients on forming and disposing of collections , furnishing period properties , hotel and commercial projects , also a shoot-room and lodge .
All goods are available to view and owned by M.Lees&Sons .
If visiting, a telephone call prior is advisable as due to the demands of the business the show-room does not have regular hours . Please feel free to contact us if we can be of assistance .
www.leesantiquesworcester.com.
Tel. 01905 26620 / 07860826218
Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.
Internal Ref: ML 163