16th Century Stone Lion Statues

Pair of natural stone sculptures from the early 16th century representing two in a lying position, left front paw placed on a sphere (in the manner of the Medici lions). Origin: Occitanie region, placed at the entrance to a lordly home, they were guarding it! (The lion is a symbol of bravery, like all felines, it only sleeps with one eye watching the house). They rest on rectangular bases, crafted and curved on the front to accommodate the dough placed on the sphere. The sculpture is well executed: we can see a beautiful mane falling on the back of the animal. The heads are expressive thanks to the work of the gaze and the muzzle. They are sitting on their tails which cannot be seen! In very good state of conservation, they show no breakage or restoration: all the members are present. Note a few small chips from use on the bases. Their proportions make it possible to consider both exterior use and interior decoration? Base dimensions: 62/42cm height 57cm