Large Pair of Late 19th Century Grand Tour Plaster Canova Lions

19th century

Sold by Mark Jones Antiques

Description

An oversized pair of plaster lions after Antonio Canova, Italian, circa 1880, with original black finish and textured detailing.

Dimensions: 21 & 23cm high, 46 & 48cm wide, 17cm deep

Antonio Canova (1757-1822) was the greatest Italian neoclassical sculptor, and sculpted the marble lions for the monumental tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St. Peter's, Rome from 1783 to 1792. They proved to be a popular image, copies were made soon after in the workshops of Rome to sell to wealthy 'Grand Tourists' as souvenirs from their classical tour. One lion is depicted sleeping, whilst the other is vigilant, said to represent the Pope's moderation and vigilance. In England, Canova's greatest patron was the 6th Duke of Devonshire whose seat was at Chatsworth House, Derbyshire.

Physical Dimensions

Height

23cm (9.06")

Width

48cm (18.90")

Depth

17cm (6.69")

Declaration

Mark Jones Antiques has dated this piece to the 1880s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA788208

Dealers Internal Reference

MJGTA0046

Dealers Notes

National and International shipping can be arranged on request at competitive rates.

Description

An oversized pair of plaster lions after Antonio Canova, Italian, circa 1880, with original black finish and textured detailing.

Dimensions: 21 & 23cm high, 46 & 48cm wide, 17cm deep

“

Antonio Canova (1757-1822) was the greatest Italian neoclassical sculptor, and sculpted the marble lions for the monumental tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St.

Mark Jones Antiques

Peter's, Rome from 1783 to 1792. They proved to be a popular image, copies were made soon after in the workshops of Rome to sell to wealthy 'Grand Tourists' as souvenirs from their classical tour. One lion is depicted sleeping, whilst the other is vigilant, said to represent the Pope's moderation and vigilance. In England, Canova's greatest patron was the 6th Duke of Devonshire whose seat was at Chatsworth House, Derbyshire.