Description

Magnificent pair of early C19th Italian �Grand Tour� souvenir carved white statuary marble lions after Antonio Canova .
Finely carved pair of marble lions being reductions of the iconic Antonio Canova (1757-1822) originals sculpted for the monumental tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St.Peter�s Basilica , Vatican City , Rome , Italy in 1792 .
The originals were carved by Canova in travertine marble , whilst copies and reductions were carved from various stone and marble in the workshops of Rome during the nineteenth century , for sale as souvenirs to wealthy �Grand Tourists� visiting the Eternal City .
Mounted on later sympathetic figured green marble substantial plinth block bases , the lions are each depicted lying as guardians , one sleeping , the other vigilant ; a detail said to reflect the late Pope�s qualities of moderation and vigilance respectively .
Skilfully and boldly carved with exceptional attention to detail to the manes and faces , being accurate representations of the originals . In excellent original condition , the well-chosen pure white statuary marble of the sculptures contrasting beautifully with the selected green marble of the plinths .
Examples can be found in the finest noble seats and country-house collections of the world , in particular a large pair of carved marble Canova lions can be seen in the sculpture gallery of Chatsworth House , Derbyshire , England .
* a pair of lions of similar scale sold Christie�s, London 29/1/2019 Sale No. 17300 Lot no.231 �7750
H (full) 8�
H (lions) 6.5�
W 10�
D 4�
Italy c.1840
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 . Our inventory on Selling Antiques showcases our range of stock, whilst more items are available to view on our website. Please visit us on:
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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 241