Pair of Early C19th Italian ‘Grand Tour’ Souvenir Bronze Lions After Antonio Canova.

Pair of early C19th Italian ‘Grand Tour’ souvenir bronze lions after Antonio Canova.

Well-cast pair of recumbent bronze lions mounted upon their original well-figured ‘verde antico’ marble block plinth bases . The bronzes having traces of their original worn gilt lacquer, now with a desirable warm golden green-tinged aged patination and surface.

Bronze reductions after the marble originals sculpted by Antonio Canova between 1783 and 1792 , for the monumental tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St.Peter’s Basilica, Rome , Italy. The guardian lions are modelled as one being vigilant, whilst the other rests , said to represent the Pope’s moderation and vigilance. Antonio Canova ( 1757-1822) was recognised as the greatest Italian neo-classical sculptor.

‘Grand Tour’ souvenirs such as these , were produced to satisfy the demands of wealthy and aristocratic visitors to Italy completing the cultural tour of the sites and sights of classical Europe during the C18th and C19th.

Examples of varying scale and materials of these iconic sculptures, can be found in many of the finest country-houses, museums and collections of the world.

H 5”

W 5”

L 10”

Italy c.1820

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 the website Selling Antiques .co.uk showcases our range of stock, whilst more items are available to view on our website. Please visit us on:

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.