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ID #SA1155349
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Large Cast Iron Medici Lion
Sold by Willows Antiques and Interiors
sold SA1155349
Sorry, but this item has been sold.
Willows Antiques and Interiors

Willows Antiques and Interiors

Sellingantiques Verified Since May 2022
Browse dealers 26 items
Id #SA1155349
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Large Cast Iron Medici Lion

19th century
Sold 16 December 2025 · Willows Antiques and Interiors
This “Large Cast Iron Medici Lion” found a buyer.

It was listed by Willows Antiques and Interiors. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.

Description

An impressive cast iron Medici lion. The original paintwork skilfully executed to resemble a bronze finish. Set on a black marble base.

French, circa 1850.

Physical Dimensions
Height
22.5cm (8.86")
Width
38cm (14.96")
Depth
13cm (5.12")
Declaration

Willows Antiques and Interiors has dated this Cast Iron Lion Sculpture to the 1850s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1155349
Dealers Notes

OPENING HOURS:

Tuesday 10am - 3pm

Wednesday 10am - 3pm

Thursday 10am - 3pm

Friday 10am - 3pm

Saturday 10am - 4pm

Other times including weekends & evenings, are available by appointment.

Description
An impressive cast iron Medici lion. The original paintwork skilfully executed to resemble a bronze finish. Set on a black marble base.

French, circa 1850.

Height
22.5cm (8.86")
Width
38cm (14.96")
Depth
13cm (5.12")
Date of Manufacture

Willows Antiques and Interiors has dated this Cast Iron Lion Sculpture to the 1850s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1155349
Willows Antiques and Interiors
Willows Antiques and Interiors
Sellingantiques verified Since May 2022
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Willows Antiques and Interiors Profile Page

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A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base. SOLD6+ MONTHS AGO
1 / 5
Archive I A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base. SOLD6+ MONTHS AGO

Large Cast Iron Medici Lion

Archive II A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base. View II
Archive III A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base. View III
Archive IV A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base. View IV
Archive V A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base. View V
Enlarged Archival View
Telephone 07748 520861
Location
317 Lillie Road
London
SW6 7LL
United Kingdom
Verified Since May 2022
Items For Sale 26
Items Sold 276
Willows Antiques and Interiors
Willows Antiques and Interiors
Verified Since May 2022
View Dealer Info
Location: 317 Lillie Road, London, SW6 7LL, United Kingdom
Verified
May 2022
For Sale
26
Sold
276
A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base.
Large cast iron Medici lion
Ref: SA1155349
A dark cast iron sculpture of a crouching Medici lion with its paw resting upon a spherical ball, mounted on a rectangular plinth base.
Detail View 1
Detail View 2
Detail View 3
Detail View 4
Archival Detail
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Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectSculptures & Carvings
  • Period19th century
  • StyleGrand Regency
  • MaterialCast Iron
  • ColourDark Bronze
  • MotifsCrouching posture, Paw on sphere, Detailed curling mane, Rectangular plinth base
  • SizeH 22.5 cm (9 in) x W 38 cm (15 in) x D 13 cm (5 in)

The Medici lion motif originates from a pair of marble lion sculptures, one ancient Roman and the other from the 16th century, which were famously housed at the Villa Medici in Rome and later became iconic subjects for Grand Tour souvenirs.

These sculptures are traditionally produced by pouring molten iron into sand moulds, a technique known as sand casting, which allows for intricate detailing in the mane and musculature before finishing with protective patination.

Authentic period pieces typically exhibit consistent surface wear, genuine oxidisation, crisp casting seams consistent with traditional foundry methods, and substantial weight without modern synthetic fillers.

This piece can be used as a striking focal point on a study desk, a mantelpiece, or atop a bookcase, contrasting effectively against minimalist backgrounds or complementing traditional architectural details.

Preservation involves dusting with a soft, dry cloth and periodically applying a microcrystalline wax to protect the metal from moisture and inhibit corrosion without altering the original patina.
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